Nazali kozanga yo
The English phrase "I miss you" is translated into Lingala as Nazali kozanga yo.
Meaning: I miss you (phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
The literal meaning of Nazali kozanga yo is "I am lacking you". It is composed of the words nazali meaning "I am", kozanga meaning "to lack" or "to miss" and yo meaning "you".
Did you know?
- The verb 'kozanga' can also be used in a commercial context to describe being out of stock or lacking a specific item in a shop.
- Because Lingala is widely used in Rumba music, phrases of longing like Nazali kozanga yo are frequently elongated and stylized in lyrics to emphasize heartache.
- In Congo-Kinshasa, it is common to pair expressions of longing with the word bolingo, meaning 'love', to intensify the emotional weight of the sentiment.
Example conversation
Marie and Jean are talking on the phone.
- MarieJean, nazali kozanga yo.Jean, I miss you.
- JeanNazali kozanga yo mpe, Marie.I miss you too, Marie.
- MarieTanakutana ntango nini?When are we meeting?
- JeanNazali kozanga yo, nakoya lelo.I miss you, I am coming today.
