kedu ka abalị gị siri dị?
kedu ka abalị gị siri dị? is the Igbo way to say "how was your night?"
This phrase is used specifically as a morning greeting to inquire about how someone slept or the quality of their night.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase breaks down literally as kedu (how), ka (that/as), abalị (night), gị (your) and siri dị (was/existed).
When do people say it?
When someone asks you this greeting, a common response is Ọ dị mma, which means "It was good" or "It is good".
Did you know?
- In many Igbo communities, the response to this greeting is not just about sleep, but is often a way to acknowledge the protection of the ancestors or God through the night.
- When greeting elders with this phrase, it is culturally polite to slightly bow or nod your head to show respect while asking.
- The word abalị for 'night' is often used in Igbo poetry to symbolize a period of transition or a time of spiritual vulnerability.
Examples in context
- Nne, kedu ka abalị gị siri dị?Mother, how was your night?
Example conversation
Chioma and Obinna are having breakfast together.
- ChiomaỤtụala, Obinna. Kedu ka abalị gị siri dị?Good morning, Obinna. How was your night?
- ObinnaỌ dị mma, Chioma. Abalị m dị jịrị ngwa.It was good, Chioma. My night was peaceful.
- ChiomaObi dị mma ịnụ nke ahụ.I am glad to hear that.
- ObinnaImeela. Gị na gị nwanne m?Thank you. And you, my sister?
