Which one should you use?
The form Unjani? is used when asking one person how they are, whereas ninjani? is used for multiple people. Therefore, while Molo, unjani? addresses a single individual, you should use Molo, ninjani? when addressing more than one person.
How does it change in a sentence?
The greeting changes depending on whether you are addressing one person or a group. Molo is the singular form of "hello," while Molweni is the plural form. For example, the phrase Molo, unjani? changes to Molweni, ninjani? when addressing a group of people. The word Unjani? is used for a single individual, while ninjani? is the plural form used when addressing several individuals.
When do people say it?
To show respect to elders, you can add Tata (father) before a formal greeting. A standard response to the question Unjani? is Ndiphilile, enkosi, which means "I am well, thank you."
Did you know?
- Using the plural greeting Molweni when addressing a single person of very high status is sometimes used as a way to show extreme respect.
- When you respond with Ndiyaphila, you are literally saying 'I am living', which implies a sense of vitality and existence rather than just a mood.
- Xhosa is a tonal language, meaning the pitch used when saying Molo or Unjani? can subtly alter the emotional nuance of the greeting.
Examples in context
- Molo, unjani?Hi, how are you?
