ithi nadi
addressee singular
The English phrase "how are you" is translated into Luo as ithi nadi. Wiktionary also lists uthi nadi.
Meaning: greeting (phrase)
Ways to say it
| Luo | Note |
|---|---|
| ithi nadi | addressee singular |
| uthi nadi | addressee plural |
These phrases are used as a greeting to ask how someone is doing.
Which one should you use?
ithi nadi is used when addressing a single person, whereas uthi nadi is used when addressing more than one person.
Did you know?
- The verb 'ithi' (to go) within the greeting suggests a movement or a progression of one's life path. It is less about a static state of being and more about how one's journey is currently unfolding.
- Luo belongs to the Nilotic language family, meaning it is more closely related to languages like Maasai and Dinka than to the Bantu languages spoken in neighboring regions.
- While English speakers might use 'how are you' as a passing salutation without expecting a real answer, in Luo, providing a substantive response is a vital way to demonstrate respect for the speaker.
Example sentences for Luo are not verified yet.
Example conversation
Atieno and Okoth meet on the street.
- AtienoOkoth, ithi nadi?Okoth, how are you?
- OkothAdi, atimo maber.Yes, I am doing well.
- AtienoMaber, anyalo konyi?Good, can I help you?
- OkothEe, erokamano.Yes, thank you.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “how are you” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
