dumela
In Sepedi, the English phrase "hello" is translated as dumela.
The word dumela is a standard, polite way to initiate a conversation. For a more casual setting, you can use Heita! to catch someone's attention or to say hello to someone you know well.
Meaning: greeting (intj)
Which one should you use?
dumela is the singular form used when addressing one person, whereas dumelang is the plural form used when addressing a group of people.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
dumela is a common formal greeting used to greet one person. In contrast, Heita! is an informal greeting used among acquaintances.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Northern Sepedi, Thobela may be used instead of dumela as a formal greeting.
How does it change in a sentence?
Use dumelang instead of dumela when greeting more than one person.
Did you know?
- The informal greeting Heita! is not exclusive to Sepedi and is a widely used piece of township slang across various South African languages.
- When greeting an elder or someone in a position of authority, it is customary to accompany your dumela with a slight bow or a respectful nod of the head.
- The word Thobela is often considered more 'regal' or high-register than dumela, and is frequently heard in traditional ceremonies or when addressing chiefs.
Examples in context
- Dumela, mme.Hello, ma'am.
- Dumela, rra.Hello, sir.
- Dumela, kgaetlešo.Hello, sibling.
Example conversation
Tshepiso greets Katlego as they pass each other on the street.
- TshepisoDumela, Katlego.Hello, Katlego.
- KatlegoDumela, Tshepiso.Hello, Tshepiso.
- TshepisoO kae?How are you?
- KatlegoKe gona, ke a leboga.I am fine, thank you.
