di m
The English phrase "my husband" is translated into Igbo as di m.
This phrase is used by a married woman to refer to her male spouse.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of di, meaning "husband" and the possessive pronoun m, meaning "my".
How does it change in a sentence?
In Igbo, the possessive pronoun m follows the noun it modifies.
Did you know?
- In traditional Igbo society, the concept of 'husband' often extended to include brothers of a deceased husband through levirate marriage.
- In many Igbo-speaking contexts, a woman might avoid using the literal name of her husband in public to show respect, opting instead for terms of endearment or titles.
- The word di can also mean 'to be' or 'to exist' in certain contexts, though it is most commonly recognized as 'husband'.
Examples in context
- Di m na-arụ ọrụ.My husband is working.
- Di m bụ mmadụ dị mma.My husband is a good person.
Example conversation
Nneka is telling Chidi about her spouse's arrival.
- ChidiOnye na-abịa n'ụzọ ahụ?Who is coming that way?
- NnekaỌ bụ di m na-abịa.It is my husband coming.
- ChidiỌ rịwara njem ogologo oge?Did he travel for a long time?
- NnekaEe, di m lala n'obodo anyị.Yes, my husband went to our village.
