lusuku lwekutalwa loluhle
The English phrase "happy birthday" is translated into Swati as lusuku lwekutalwa loluhle.
This phrase is used to offer good wishes to someone on the occasion of their birthday.
Meaning: good wishes for a birthday (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of lusuku (day), lwekutalwa (of birth) and loluhle (that is good or beautiful).
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective loluhle must agree with the noun lusuku in class, which is why it takes the lo- prefix.
Did you know?
- In Swazi culture, the concept of a 'birthday' is a relatively modern adoption. Traditionally, age was measured by generational cohorts or major life milestones rather than the specific date of one's birth.
- The word loluhle in lusuku lwekutalwa loluhle can mean both 'good' and 'beautiful'. This reflects a linguistic tendency in Swati to blend moral goodness with aesthetic beauty.
- While 'happy birthday' is a common greeting, many Swati speakers might prioritize a blessing for long life over a simple 'good' day.
Examples in context
- Lusuku lwekutalwa loluhle.Happy birthday.Tatoeba #13654295 by ecorralest101, translation #8324073 by brandur
- Ngikufisela lusuku lwekutalwa loluhle.I wish you a happy birthday.
Example conversation
Bandile gives a gift to Nomvula.
- BandileLusuku lwekutalwa loluhle, Nomvula!Happy birthday, Nomvula!
- NomvulaNgiyabonga kakhulu, Bandile.Thank you very much, Bandile.
- BandileNasi sipho sakho.Here is your gift.
- NomvulaUmnene kakhulu, ngiyabonga!You are very kind, thank you!
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
