Sawubona, unjani?
The English phrase "hi, how are you?" is translated into Zulu as Sawubona, unjani?
This phrase is a common greeting used to say hello and ask about someone's well-being. The component Sawubona functions as a hello or good day, while unjani? is used to ask how someone is.
What does it mean word for word?
The greeting Sawubona literally means "I see you".
Which one should you use?
When greeting a group of people rather than a single person, you should use Sanibonani instead of Sawubona. Similarly, Sawubona is used for one person, while ninjani? is the plural form of the question "how are you?" used for more than one person.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word unjani? is the singular form used when addressing one person. If you are addressing multiple people, use ninjani? instead.
When do people say it?
A common response to Unjani? is Ngikhona, which means "I am well" or "I am present". This is often followed by unjani wena? to return the question, meaning "how are you?"
Did you know?
- While Sawubona is translated as 'hello', it is deeply rooted in the philosophy of Ubuntu, suggesting that a person only truly exists and is recognized once they have been acknowledged by another.
- The plural greeting Sanibonani is used not only for groups but also as a mark of high respect when addressing a single person of very high status.
- The word Sawubona is actually a contraction of the phrase Siyakubona, which means 'We see you'.
Examples in context
- Sawubona, Zanele. Unjani?Hello, Zanele. How are you?
- Sawubona, unjani?Hi, how are you?
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries sawubona, CC BY-SA 4.0.
