Nante yiye
The Twi phrase for goodbye is Nante yiye.
This phrase is used to express farewell when one person is departing and leaving another person behind.
Meaning: farewell (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the verb nante (walk) and the adverb yiye (well/beautifully).
Did you know?
- While Nante yiye is the standard farewell, it is common in Ghana to avoid saying 'goodbye' in certain contexts to prevent implying a permanent or ominous separation.
- Because the phrase contains the word nante (walk), it is rarely used when the person departing is leaving by a vehicle or plane.
- In many Akan cultures, it is common to use physical movement or walking as a metaphor for the progress of one's life journey.
Examples in context
- Nante yiye, yɛbɛhyia bio.Goodbye, we will meet again.
- Nante yiye, kɔ fie.Goodbye, go home.
- Nante yiye, ɛda.Goodbye, see you tomorrow.
Example conversation
Kofi and Ama are parting ways after a visit.
- KofiMe kɔ deɛ, Ama.I am leaving now, Ama.
- AmaNante yiye, Kofi.Goodbye, Kofi.
- KofiYɛbɛhyia bio.We will meet again.
- AmaAane, yɛbɛhyia bio.Yes, we will meet again.
