hamjambo nyote
hamjambo nyote is the Swahili way to say "hello everyone".
This phrase is used specifically when the speaker is addressing a group of two or more people.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase breaks down into hamjambo, which means "you all are not without issues/problems" and nyote, which means "all of you".
When do people say it?
When a group is addressed with hamjambo nyote, they should respond with hatujambo, which means "we are fine".
Did you know?
- The word jambo is often used by tourists to mean 'hello', but for a local speaker, it is a noun meaning 'matter', 'affair', or 'issue'.
- In very formal settings, the phrase hamjambo nyote might be preceded by a title of respect to avoid sounding too blunt to elders.
- The greeting hamjambo is phrased as a negative question. Instead of asking if you are well, it literally asks if you 'do not have' any problems.
Example conversation
Aisha greets Omari and his friends at a cafe.
- AishaHamjambo nyote! Mko hapa?Hello everyone! Are you here?
- OmariHatujambo Aisha, habari yako?We are fine Aisha, how are you?
- AishaNiko vizuri sana, asante.I am very well, thank you.
- OmariKaribu tukae pamoja.Welcome, come sit with us.
