Sango nini?
The English phrase "how are you" is translated into Lingala as Sango nini?
This phrase is used as a greeting.
Meaning: greeting (phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "What news?", where sango means "news/information" and nini means "what".
When do people say it?
When someone asks you Sango nini?, a common response is Sango te, which literally means "No news", implying that everything is fine or normal. You can also respond with Malamu to indicate that you are doing well.
Did you know?
- Lingala is a vehicular language, meaning it was developed to allow different ethnic groups to communicate, which is why common phrases like Sango nini? are so widely recognized.
- Because Lingala is heavily influenced by French, you might occasionally hear 'Bonjour' used alongside Sango nini?, blending European and African greeting customs.
- The word nini used in this greeting is borrowed from Swahili, a language spoken across East Africa, showing how Lingala integrates regional influences.
Examples in context
- Sango nini?How are you?
Example conversation
Grace and Jean meet on the street.
- GraceMbote Jean, Sango nini?Hello Jean, how are you?
- JeanMbote Grace, sango malamu.Hello Grace, I am fine.
- GraceNazali na esengo ya kokutana na yo.I am happy to meet you.
- JeanNgai mpe, mboté!Me too, hello!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries nini, sango, CC BY-SA 4.0.
