àbúrò mi obìnrin
The English phrase "my sister" is translated into Yoruba as àbúrò mi obìnrin.
This phrase is used specifically to identify a female sibling who is younger than the speaker.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of àbúrò (younger sibling), mi (my) and obìnrin (female/woman).
Which one should you use?
Use àbúrò mi obìnrin for a younger sister, whereas ẹ̀gbọ́n mi obìnrin is used to refer to an older sister.
Did you know?
- Yoruba speakers may use the term àbúrò to address a close friend or colleague who is younger, treating them as a symbolic younger sibling.
- In many Yoruba households, the distinction between àbúrò (younger) and ẹ̀gbọ́n (older) is so important that it dictates who performs certain chores or receives certain greetings.
- Because Yoruba is a tonal language, saying àbúrò mi obìnrin with the wrong pitch can change the meaning of the individual words entirely.
Examples in context
- Oore ofe ni o, ọmọ mi. Àbùrò mi ni oYou are a cherished gift, my sibling, my younger sister, indeed
Example conversation
Olumide is introducing his sister to Folake.
- OlumideFolake, wò ó, àbúrò mi obìnrin ni.Folake, look, this is my younger sister.
- FolakeÓ lẹ́wà gan, Olumide.She is very beautiful, Olumide.
- OlumideO ṣeun, óyínjútó ni.Thank you, she is very sweet.
- FolakeInú mi dùn láti rí i.I am happy to see her.
