nimefurahi kukutana nawe
The English phrase "nice to meet you" is expressed in Swahili as nimefurahi kukutana nawe.
This phrase is a polite expression used to tell someone that you are pleased to meet them for the first time.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of nimefurahi (I am happy), kukutana (to meet) and nawe (with you). Literally, it translates to "I have been happy to meet with you".
How does it change in a sentence?
If you wish to say "nice to meet him/her" instead of "you", change the suffix to nimefurahi kukutana naye.
Did you know?
- In very formal settings, such as meeting an elder, it is more common to start with the respectful greeting shikamoo before saying nimefurahi kukutana nawe.
- In coastal regions influenced by Arabic culture, you might hear nafurahi kukutana nawe using the present tense instead of the perfect tense nimefurahi, shifting the focus to the immediate moment.
- In many East African social contexts, it is often considered more polite to ask about someone's family or health before or after stating nimefurahi kukutana nawe.
Examples in context
- Nimefurahi kukutana nawe sana.I am very happy to meet you.
- Nimefurahi kukutana nawe leo.It is nice to meet you today.
- Nimefurahi kukutana nawe, rafiki.Nice to meet you, friend.
Example conversation
Aisha and Omari are meeting for the first time at a social event.
- AishaHabari yako, Omari?How are you, Omari?
- OmariNzuri, Aisha. Nimefurahi kukutana nawe.Good, Aisha. Nice to meet you.
- AishaPia nimefurahi kukutana nawe.I am also happy to meet you.
- OmariAsante sana.Thank you very much.
