Èmi náà nífẹ̀ẹ́ rẹ
The phrase "I love you too" in Yoruba is Èmi náà nífẹ̀ẹ́ rẹ.
This phrase is used as a response to tell someone that you feel the same love for them.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase breaks down literally into Èmi (I), náà (also/too), nífẹ̀ẹ́ (love/has love) and rẹ (you).
Which one should you use?
While Èmi náà nífẹ̀ẹ́ rẹ is used for a singular person, you can use Èmi náà nífẹ̀ẹ́ yín to refer to more than one person or to show respect.
How does it change in a sentence?
To change the phrase to be plural or more respectful, replace rẹ (singular you) with yín (plural/polite you).
Did you know?
- Yoruba is a tonal language, meaning the marks on Èmi náà nífẹ̀ẹ́ rẹ are not accents but indicators of pitch. Changing the tone of a word can completely change its meaning into a different word entirely.
- While Èmi náà nífẹ̀ẹ́ rẹ is the direct translation, Yoruba culture often emphasizes love through actions and proverbs rather than frequent verbal declarations of 'I love you'.
- The word nífẹ̀ẹ́ is derived from fẹ́, which can mean both 'to love' and 'to want'. In Yoruba, the line between wanting someone and loving someone is linguistically blurred.
Examples in context
- Èmi náà nífẹ̀ẹ́ rẹ.I love you too.
- Bẹ́ẹ̀ ni, èmi náà nífẹ̀ẹ́ rẹ.Yes, I love you too.
- Má ṣe gbàgbé pé èmi náà nífẹ̀ẹ́ rẹ.Don't forget that I love you too.
Example conversation
A couple is saying goodbye before work.
- FolakeOlumide, mo nífẹ̀ẹ́ rẹ.Olumide, I love you.
- OlumideÈmi náà nífẹ̀ẹ́ rẹ, Folake.I love you too, Folake.
- FolakeÓ dàbò, Olumide.Goodbye, Olumide.
- OlumideÓ dàbò, Folake.Goodbye, Folake.
