Murabeho
The English phrase 'goodbye' is translated into Kinyarwanda as Murabeho.
Murabeho is used to express a farewell. It is typically used when you are parting ways for a more significant or long-term period of time.
Meaning: farewell (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, Murabeho means 'May you (plural) live long'.
Which one should you use?
Murabeho is specifically used for long-term departures, while other expressions might be used for shorter-term goodbyes.
How does it change in a sentence?
Murabeho is the plural form and should be used when you are addressing a group of people.
Did you know?
- Because it literally translates to 'May you live', using it for a very short parting, like a quick trip to the shop, can sound overly dramatic or even ominous.
- In many Rwandan social contexts, a farewell is not just a word but is often accompanied by a specific respectful distance or a slight bow.
- Because Murabeho is plural, using it for a single person is a way to show high respect, similar to using the formal 'vous' in French.
Examples in context
- Murabeho, nzagenda.Goodbye, I am leaving.
- Murabeho, tuzabonana ejo.Goodbye, we will see each other tomorrow.
Example conversation
Claudine and Jean are leaving a cafe.
- ClaudineMurabeho, Jean.Goodbye, Jean.
- JeanMurabeho, Claudine.Goodbye, Claudine.
- ClaudineUrugendo rwiza!Have a good trip!
- JeanMurakoze cyane.Thank you very much.
