Waan ku jeclahay
The English phrase "I love you" is translated into Somali as Waan ku jeclahay.
Waan ku jeclahay is used to express an affirmation of romantic feeling. While it is the standard way to express romantic love, it is also used for deep affection toward family or friends.
Meaning: affirmation of romantic feeling (phrase)
How does it change in a sentence?
In the phrase Waan ku jeclahay, the pronoun ku (you) is embedded within the verb to indicate the object of the affection.
Did you know?
- While Waan ku jeclahay is the literal translation, some Somalis use the phrase waan ku rabaa to express romantic longing. While rabaa usually means 'want', in a romantic context it implies a deep desire for the person.
- When expressing love for a child, a parent might use a term of endearment like nuurka indhahayga meaning 'the light of my eyes' instead of the standard Waan ku jeclahay.
- The concept of love in Somali can be categorized into 'jacayl' for romance and 'kalgacal' for the more tender, protective affection felt for children or family.
Examples in context
- Waan ku jeclahay, nolosheyda.I love you, my life.
- Waan ku jeclahay aad iyo aad.I love you very, very much.
Example conversation
A couple is saying goodbye before work.
- NimcoOmar, waan ku jeclahay.Omar, I love you.
- OmarAniguna waan ku jeclahay, Nimco.I love you too, Nimco.
- NimcoMa araa goor dhow.I will see you soon.
- OmarNabad gelyo, gacalo.Goodbye, sweetheart.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “I love you” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
