In Ethiopia, New Year’s Day falls on September 11th or 12th based on the Gregorian calendar. This day marks the start of the Ethiopian New Year and is a time of celebration and joy. If you want to greet someone and wish them a Happy Ethiopian New Year, here are some formal and informal ways to do it:
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Formal Ways to Say Happy Ethiopian New Year
If you are addressing someone in a formal setting or want to show respect, you can use the following phrases:
“Melkam Addis Amet!” (መልካም አዲስ አመት) – This is the most common formal greeting, which translates to “Happy New Year.”
When using this phrase, it’s customary to greet the person with a firm handshake and make eye contact to show your respect and sincerity. You can also add the person’s name to personalize the greeting, for example:
“Melkam Addis Amet, [Name]!”
Another formal way to wish someone a Happy Ethiopian New Year is by saying:
“Tikimt Ashebiru!” (ጥቅምት አሸብሩ) – This means “Have a Prosperous New Year” and can be used in formal settings or with esteemed individuals.
If you want to express your well-wishes, you can also say:
“Amet yihuneh” (አመት ይሁነህ) – This translates to “May you have a good year.”
Remember, when using these formal greetings, make sure to maintain proper eye contact, speak clearly, and show genuine interest in the person you are greeting.
Informal Ways to Say Happy Ethiopian New Year
If you are greeting your friends, family, or loved ones, you can use more casual phrases to convey your New Year wishes:
“Enkuan Aderesachu!” (እንቁጣን አደረሳቹ) – This is a common informal greeting that means “Happy New Year.”
You can also add the person’s name or a term of endearment to make it more personal:
“Enkuan Aderesachu, [Name]!”
Another informal way to say Happy Ethiopian New Year is:
“Selamta Fetari!” (ሰላምታ ፈጣሪ) – This translates to “Greetings for the New Year.”
If you have a close relationship with the person you are greeting, you can use the phrase:
“Chuhet Tena Yistilign!” (ቸህት ተና ይስጥልኝ) – This means “I wish you a joyful New Year.”
Remember, when using informal greetings, you can be more relaxed in your approach and use a friendly tone to convey your New Year wishes.
Examples of Greetings for Ethiopian New Year
Here are some examples of how you can greet someone and wish them a Happy Ethiopian New Year:
- Formal Greetings:
- “Melkam Addis Amet, [Name]! May this New Year bring you prosperity and happiness.”
- “Tikimt Ashebiru! Wishing you a year filled with success and joy.”
- “Amet yihuneh. May this New Year bless you with good health and abundant blessings.”
- Informal Greetings:
- “Enkuan Aderesachu, my dear friend! Wishing you a New Year full of laughter and love.”
- “Selamta Fetari! I hope this New Year brings you endless opportunities and unforgettable memories.”
- “Chuhet Tena Yistilign! May this New Year be a year of dreams come true and new beginnings.”
Remember, the best way to convey your New Year wishes is to speak from the heart and show genuine care and warmth.
Conclusion
Celebrating the Ethiopian New Year is a wonderful time to reconnect with loved ones and exchange heartfelt greetings. Whether you opt for a formal or informal greeting, expressing your well-wishes in their native language, Amharic, adds a personal touch and shows your interest in their culture and traditions. Use the above phrases and examples to greet someone and say Happy Ethiopian New Year with sincerity and warmth.
