When it comes to bidding farewell in Seychellois Creole, the spoken language of the Seychelles archipelago in the Indian Ocean, you have a range of options depending on the level of formality and the region you are in. In this guide, we’ll explore various ways to say goodbye in Seychellois Creole, including both formal and informal expressions. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Goodbyes
If you find yourself in a formal setting or interacting with someone of higher social status, using a formal expression to say goodbye is considered appropriate. Here are a few options:
- Goodbye – Pronounced “Orevwar,” this is the most commonly used formal way to say goodbye in Seychelles. It is widely understood and accepted across different regions.
- Au revoir – Derived from French, Seychellois Creole has borrowed several expressions over the years. “Au revoir” is recognized and used as a formal way to bid farewell in Seychellois Creole.
Informal Goodbyes
Informal situations allow for a more casual approach when saying goodbye. Here are some commonly used expressions:
- A plitar – Pronounced “ah plee-tar,” this phrase is equivalent to “goodbye” or “see you.” It can be used among friends or acquaintances in informal settings.
- Bonzour talé – This informal phrase is commonly used to say “goodbye” as a way of wishing someone well for the rest of the day. It translates to “good day (afternoon) onwards.”
Regional Variations
While Seychelles is a small island nation, regional variations in the creole language do exist. Depending on the specific island or even the district within an island, you may come across slightly different ways to say goodbye. Here are a few examples:
- Au revoir – As mentioned earlier, this French expression is recognized throughout the Seychelles archipelago, regardless of regional variations in other phrases.
- Adyé – More commonly used in Praslin and La Digue, this informal phrase is similar to “goodbye” in English.
- A la ters – Used predominantly in the southern region of Mahé, this phrase is a variation of “goodbye” and is commonly heard among locals in the area.
Examples and Tips
Here are a few examples and tips to help you use these expressions appropriately:
Example 1:
Person A: Orevwar!
Person B: Orevwar! See you tomorrow.Tip: “Orevwar” can be used in both formal and informal settings, making it a versatile phrase for goodbyes.
Example 2:
Person A: Bonzour talé!
Person B: Bonzour talé!Tip: “Bonzour talé” is best used during the afternoon or later parts of the day as a way to acknowledge the time of day and say goodbye simultaneously.
Example 3:
Person A: A plitar!
Person B: See you next week.
Person A: Wi, a plitar!Tip: “A plitar” is an informal way to say goodbye, and it can also be used to say “see you” for futur arrangements.
Conclusion
Saying goodbye in Seychellois Creole can be an enriching experience, showcasing your interest in the local culture and language. Whether you find yourself in a formal or informal context, using the appropriate expression is essential. From “Orevwar” for formal situations to “A plitar” for casual settings, you now have a range of options at your disposal.
