ndewo, kedu ka i mere
The English phrase "hello, how are you" is translated into Igbo as ndewo, kedu ka i mere.
This phrase is a common greeting used to both say hello and inquire about a person's well-being.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of ndewo, which means hello or greetings and kedu ka i mere, which means how are you or how did you do.
How does it change in a sentence?
To change the greeting from addressing one person to addressing a group, replace the singular i (you) with the plural unu to say kedu ka unu mere, meaning "how are you (plural)".
When do people say it?
A common response to the question kedu ka i mere is ọ dị mma, which means "it is well" or "it is good".
Did you know?
- Igbo is a tonal language, meaning the pitch used to say ndewo can change the meaning of the word entirely. A slight shift in tone can turn a friendly greeting into a completely different word.
- In Igbo culture, asking kedu ka i mere is often just the beginning of a long series of inquiries. It is common to follow up with specific questions about the person's family, health and work before the actual conversation starts.
- The word ndewo can be used not only as a greeting but also as a way to say 'thank you' or 'well done' in certain contexts. It conveys a general sense of wishing peace and wellness upon another person.
Examples in context
- Ndewo, kedu ka i mere?Hello, how are you?
- Ndewo, kedu ka i mere, ezigbo enyi m?Hello, how are you, my good friend?
- Nne, ndewo, kedu ka i mere?Mother, hello, how are you?
Example conversation
Chidi and Chioma meet on the street.
- ChidiNdewo, kedu ka i mere, Chioma?Hello, how are you, Chioma?
- ChiomaỌ dị m mma, Chidi. Gị na gị?I am fine, Chidi. And you?
- ChidiỌ dị m mma mma.I am very fine.
- ChiomaỌ dị mma.That is good.
