muli bwanji?
The Chichewa phrase for "how are you?" is muli bwanji?
Muli bwanji? is a common greeting used to ask someone about their well-being.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of muli (you are) and bwanji (how).
Which one should you use?
muli bwanji? is the more respectful or group-oriented version, whereas uli bwanji? is an informal version used with close friends or younger people.
When do people say it?
A common response to muli bwanji? is ndili bwino, which means "I am well" or "I am fine".
Did you know?
- In Malawi, it is often considered impolite to skip the greeting muli bwanji? and go straight to the point of a conversation, even in professional settings.
- The phrase muli bwanji? uses the plural prefix mu-, which is used not just for groups but as a 'honorific' to show respect to a single person of higher status.
- Depending on the region, you might hear people respond to muli bwanji? by asking about the other person's family before answering for themselves.
Examples in context
- Muli bwanji, abambo?How are you, sir?
Example conversation
Kondani and Tionda meet on the street.
- KondaniMoni Tionda, muli bwanji?Hello Tionda, how are you?
- TiondaNdili bwino, Kondani. Kaya inu?I am fine, Kondani. And you?
- KondaniNdili bwino kwambiri, zikomo.I am very well, thank you.
- TiondaNdine wokondwa kumva zimenezo.I am happy to hear that.
