ce mai faci?
In Romanian, "how are you?" is said as ce mai faci?
This phrase is a common greeting used to ask someone about their general well-being or current situation.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase ce mai faci? literally translates to "what more are you doing?"
Which one should you use?
The informal version ce mai faci? is used with friends, family or people your own age. In contrast, ce mai faceți? is the formal version used with strangers, elders or in professional settings.
How does it change in a sentence?
The question is formed by conjugating the verb a face (to do/to make). In the singular informal form ce mai faci?, the verb is in the second person singular faci. When addressing more than one person or using the formal "you" to show respect, use the form ce mai faceți?
When do people say it?
A common and standard response to ce mai faci? is Bine, mulțumesc. (Fine, thank you.).
Did you know?
- While ce mai faci? asks how you are, the verb a face is also used to create the expression a face pe cineva din pom, which means to annoy someone to the point of madness.
- The word mai in this phrase comes from the Latin 'magis', meaning 'more'.
- In many Romanian social circles, ce mai faci? can function almost like a verbal nod rather than a genuine inquiry into your life.
Examples in context
- Super bine! Tu ce mai zici?Great! What about you?
- Bună, ce mai faci?Hi, how are you?
Example conversation
Two friends meet unexpectedly on the street.
- AlexandruAndreea, ce mai faci?Andreea, how are you?
- AndreeaBună, Alexandru! Fac bine, tu?Hi, Alexandru! I'm doing well, you?
- AlexandruȘi eu sunt bine, mersi.I'm doing well too, thanks.
- AndreeaMă bucur să te văd!I'm glad to see you!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ce, mai, CC BY-SA 4.0.
