Habari
everyday
In Swahili Habari is a very common way to say "hello". It literally means "news", so it works as a greeting and a question at once. It is also called Habari yako? and Habari za asubuhi?
Meaning: greeting (phrase)
Ways to say it
| Swahili | Note |
|---|---|
| Habari | everyday |
| Habari yako? | asking about someone |
| Habari za asubuhi? | morning |
You can add words to it: Habari yako? asks about you, and Habari za asubuhi?, Habari za mchana? and Habari za jioni? fit the time of day.
Which one should you use?
The usual answers are Nzuri, Salama and Njema, all meaning good or fine. Someone may also answer Nzuri sana, very good.
When do people say it?
To greet an elder, say Shikamoo. The elder replies Marahaba.
Did you know?
- Habari comes from Arabic, and Swahili has many words of Arabic origin.
Examples in context
- Habari yako?How are you?
- Habari za asubuhi, mama?Good morning, ma'am.
- Nzuri sana, asante.Very good, thank you.
Example conversation
Juma and his teacher Mwalimu Amina meet outside school in Dar es Salaam.
- JumaShikamoo, mwalimu.Greetings, teacher.
- Mwalimu AminaMarahaba. Habari za asubuhi?I accept your greeting. How is your morning?
- JumaNzuri, asante.Good, thank you.
