akkam jirtu
The Oromo phrase for "how are you" is akkam jirtu.
Meaning: greeting (phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of akkam (how) and jirtu (you are/you live).
Which one should you use?
Akkam jirta focuses on a single individual, whereas akkam jirtu is used for groups or to show respect to an elder.
How does it change in a sentence?
Akkam jirta is the singular form used when speaking to one person or someone you are close to, and akkam jirtu is the plural form used for multiple people or as a polite way to address a single person.
When do people say it?
A common response to akkam jirtu is fayyaa dha, which literally means "it is health/wellness".
Did you know?
- The Oromo language belongs to the Cushitic branch of the Afroasiatic family, making it a distant relative of ancient languages like Ge'ez and ancient Egyptian.
- In Oromo culture, greetings like akkam jirtu are often accompanied by a handshake where the right hand is used, and in some traditional settings, the hand may be lightly touched to the chest to show sincerity.
- While English speakers often use 'how are you' as a passing-by greeting without expecting a real answer, an Oromo speaker might actually expect a meaningful update on your state of being.
Examples in context
- Akkam jirtu, maatii?How are you, family?
- Akkam jirtu, isin hunda?How are you, all of you?
- Akkam jirtu, jaallatamtoota ko?How are you, my dear ones?
Example conversation
Gadaa meets Metii on a street in the morning.
- GadaaAkkam jirtu, Metii?How are you, Metii?
- MetiiFayyaadha, Galatoomi, Gadaa.I am well, thank you, Gadaa.
- GadaaHojii akkam, Metii?How is work, Metii?
- MetiiHojichi nagaadha.Work is peaceful.
