Mo wà dáadáa
The English phrase "i am fine" in Yoruba is Mo wà dáadáa.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of Mo (I), wà (am/exist/stay) and dáadáa (well/good/properly).
How does it change in a sentence?
In this phrase, the verb wà is used to denote a state of being or existence in a certain condition.
Did you know?
- When saying Mo wà dáadáa to an elder, it is common to accompany the phrase with a physical gesture of respect, such as a slight bow or a knee bend for women, regardless of how 'fine' one feels.
- Depending on the tone used, the word wà can change meaning entirely. Because Yoruba is a tonal language, a slight shift in pitch can turn a statement of being 'fine' into a completely different verb.
- When someone asks how you are, a very common cultural response is to express gratitude to God, such as Aládúpẹ́ or 'We give thanks'. This reflects the deep integration of spirituality in daily Yoruba greetings.
Examples in context
- Mo wà dáadáa.I am fine.
- Ẹ kú àlááfíà, mo wà dáadáa.Greetings, I am fine.
Example conversation
Two friends meeting on the street.
- OlumideBáwo ni ara rẹ, Yejide?How are you, Yejide?
- YejideMo wà dáadáa, Olumide.I am fine, Olumide.
- OlumideInú mi dùn láti rí ẹ.I am happy to see you.
- YejideÈmi náà, o ṣeun!Me too, thank you!
