ọkàn mi
The English phrase "my heart" is translated into Yoruba as ọkàn mi.
ọkàn mi refers to the physical organ that pumps blood. However, the word ọkàn is also used more broadly to refer to a person's mind, soul or emotional center.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of ọkàn, meaning heart and mi, meaning my.
How does it change in a sentence?
In Yoruba, the possessive pronoun mi (my) follows the noun it modifies, as seen in the phrase ọkàn mi.
Did you know?
- In traditional Yoruba thought, the ọkàn is linked to a person's 'inner head' or destiny, making 'my heart' a reference to one's predetermined path in life.
- Because ọkàn encompasses the soul and consciousness, Yoruba has specific phrases that describe the 'heart' as something that can be 'washed' or 'cleansed' to remove bad intentions.
- The word mi for 'my' shares a common ancient root with other languages in the Niger-Congo family.
Examples in context
- Ọkàn mi ń bálẹ̀.My heart is at peace.
- Mo n gbìyànjú láti tọ́jú ọkàn mi.I am trying to take care of my heart.
Example conversation
Femi and Titi are talking about their feelings.
- FemiTiti, ọkàn mi n dun fun ẹ.Titi, my heart is happy for you.
- TitiẸ ṣeun, Femi.Thank you, Femi.
- FemiMo nifẹ rẹ lati okàn mi.I love you from my heart.
- TitiMo nifẹ rẹ naa.I love you too.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries mi, CC BY-SA 4.0.
