Mhoro, wakadii?
The Shona phrase 'hello how are you' can be expressed as Mhoro, wakadii?
This phrase is a common greeting used to start a conversation and ask about someone's well-being.
What does it mean word for word?
The word Mhoro is a greeting meaning 'hello' or 'greet'.
Which one should you use?
Use Mhoroi, makadii? instead of Mhoro, wakadii? when addressing an elder, a person of higher status or a group of people.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form Mhoro, wakadii? uses the singular wa- prefix, making it appropriate for friends, children or people of the same age.
Did you know?
- In Shona culture, a greeting is often treated like a rhythmic performance rather than a single utterance. A proper exchange typically involves a melodic back-and-forth of inquiries regarding one's surroundings and well-being before any business is discussed.
- A response to 'how are you' often involves more than a simple 'fine', as it is culturally customary to briefly mention one's health or even the state of one's family.
- The distinction between wakadii and makadii is so central to Shona social etiquette that using the singular form with an elder can be perceived as a serious sign of disrespect.
Examples in context
- Makadii Sekuru?Hello, uncle?
- Uri sei, mama?How are you, mom?
Example conversation
Two friends meet on the street.
- NyashaMhoro, wakadii?Hello, how are you?
- KudzaiNdiripo, wakadiiwo iwe?I am fine, how are you too?
- NyashaNdiripo zvakanaka, Kudzai.I am very well, Kudzai.
- KudzaiZvinofadza kunzwa izvozvo, Nyasha.It is nice to hear that, Nyasha.
