How to Say “Goodbye” in Somali

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Nabad gelyo
Goodbye in Somali is Nabad gelyo.
Nabad gelyo is the standard, polite way to say goodbye when someone is departing.
Meaning: farewell (intj)

What does it mean word for word?

The phrase is composed of nabad (peace) and gelyo (a form of the verb 'to arrive/stay/be in'), literally meaning 'peace be with you' or 'stay in peace'.

Did you know?

  • Somali has different ways of saying goodbye depending on whether you are the one leaving or the one staying behind.
  • In Somali culture, saying goodbye is often accompanied by a long series of repetitive well-wishes for the other person's health and journey.
  • While Nabad gelyo is the standard farewell, many Somalis use the Arabic phrase Asalaamu alaykum both when arriving and departing.

Examples in context

  • Nabad gelyo, saaxiib.
    Goodbye, friend.

Example conversation

Abdirashid and Nimco are leaving a coffee shop after meeting.

  1. Abdirashid

    Nimco, nabad gelyo.
    Nimco, goodbye.
  2. Nimco

    Nabad gelyo, Abdirashid.
    Goodbye, Abdirashid.
  3. Abdirashid

    Maalin wanaagsan.
    Have a good day.
  4. Nimco

    Adigana sidoo kale.
    You too.
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Rachel Jessie
Rachel JessieHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.
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