chamiet abee?
The English phrase "how are you?" is translated into Kalenjin as chamiet abee?
chamiet abee? is a common greeting used to ask someone about their well-being.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "Is there peace/wellness with you?", where chamiet refers to peace, wellness or a state of being well.
When do people say it?
When someone greets you with chamiet abee?, a common response is to simply say Chamiet, which indicates that you are well.
Did you know?
- Depending on the region, a greeting like chamiet abee? may be followed by a series of specific questions about one's livestock or crops, as these are seen as extensions of a person's wellness.
- Kalenjin is a tonal language, meaning the pitch used when saying chamiet can change the meaning of the word entirely if not pronounced correctly.
- A person might use the word chamiet to describe both a peaceful atmosphere in a village and a person's lack of a fever.
Example conversation
Kiprono and Chepkorir meet on a village path.
- KipronoChamiet abee, Chepkorir?How are you, Chepkorir?
- ChepkorirChamiet, Kiprono. Imi chamiet abee?I am fine, Kiprono. How are you?
- KipronoChamiet, kongoi.I am fine, thank you.
- ChepkorirKaribu, koret.Welcome home.
