Mo nílò owó
The English phrase "I need money" is expressed in Yoruba as Mo nílò owó.
This phrase is used to express a requirement for financial funds. The word owó specifically refers to cash or money.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of Mo (I), nílò (need/require) and owó (money).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
For a more colloquial and direct way to say "I want money", you can use Mo fẹ́ owó.
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb nílò is a compound of ní (to have) and lò (to use/need), functioning as a single transitive verb meaning "to need".
Did you know?
- The term for money owó is used in many common Yoruba idioms to describe not just wealth but also the cost of a mistake or a spiritual debt.
- When speaking with people from different parts of Yorubaland, the tone of the word owó is crucial. A mistake in the high or low tone can completely change the meaning of your sentence, turning a request for money into something nonsensical.
- If you are asking an elder for money, you should not use the phrase Mo nílò owó directly. Instead, it is culturally respectful to use a plural pronoun or honorifics to show you are addressing someone of higher status.
Examples in context
- Mo nílò owó fún ẹ̀kọ́ mi.I need money for my studies.
- Mo nílò owó láti ra oúnjẹ.I need money to buy food.
Example conversation
Morenike is talking to Femi about her school expenses.
- MorenikeFemi, mo nílò owó fún ìwé ilé-ìwé.Femi, I need money for school books.
- FemiKí nì í ṣe fún ẹ?What should I do for you?
- MorenikeṢé o le loan owó fún mi?Can you lend me some money?
- FemiÓ dára, mo máa ràn ẹ lọ́wọ́.Alright, I will help you.
