Ciamar a tha thu?
to one person
To ask "how are you?" in Scottish Gaelic, say Ciamar a tha thu? to one person. To several people or politely, say Ciamar a tha sibh? It is also called Dè do chor?
Meaning: question about well-being (phrase)
Ways to say it
| Gaelic | Note |
|---|---|
| Ciamar a tha thu? | to one person |
| Dè do chor? | casual |
| Ciamar a tha sibh? | to several or politely |
The usual answer is Tha gu math, tapadh leat, "I am well, thank you". You can also answer Tha mi gu math.
What does it mean word for word?
Ciamar means "how", a tha is a form of the verb "to be" and thu is "you".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Thu is for one person you know well. Sibh is for a group or for someone you wish to address politely.
Did you know?
- The word ciamar is the question word that starts many other Gaelic questions, such as Ciamar a bha an latha?, "How was the day?"
Examples in context
- Ciamar a tha thu an-diugh?How are you today?
- Tha mi gu math, tapadh leat.I am well, thank you.
Example conversation
Anna meets her teacher at the school gate.
- AnnaMadainn mhath. Ciamar a tha sibh?Good morning. How are you?
- TidsearTha gu math, tapadh leibh.I am well, thank you.
- AnnaTha mi toilichte.I am glad.
