Tutaonana hivi karibuni
The English phrase "see you soon" can be translated into Swahili as Tutaonana hivi karibuni.
Meaning: goodbye (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase Tutaonana hivi karibuni breaks down into tu- (we), -ta- (future tense), -onana (see each other), hivi (this/very) and karibuni (soon).
Which one should you use?
While Tutaonana hivi karibuni specifically emphasizes 'soon', the shorter Tutaonana is often used more generally to mean "See you". A shorter, very common way to say 'see you later' or 'see you soon' is simply Baadaye.
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb onana is in the reciprocal form, meaning the action of seeing is mutual between the speaker and the listener.
Did you know?
- The word karibu in karibuni also means 'welcome' and is the standard way to greet someone entering a home or shop.
- The prefix tu- in Tutaonana is an inclusive 'we', meaning it must include the person being spoken to.
- The suffix -ni in karibuni is a locative marker, which traditionally indicates a place or a specific point in time.
Examples in context
- Tutaonana baadaye, asante kwa ukarimu wako!We will meet later, thank you for your hospitality!
- Tutaonana hivi karibuni. Asante sana kwa ushirikiano wako!We will meet soon. Thank you very much for your cooperation!
- Tutaonana hivi karibuni, rafiki yangu.See you soon, my friend.
- Sawa, tutaonana hivi karibuni.Okay, see you soon.
- Tutaonana hivi karibuni wakati wa chakula cha mchana.See you soon at lunchtime.
Example conversation
Omari and Zuwena are finishing a phone call.
- OmariNisipate matatizo, tutaonana hivi karibuni.If I don't have any problems, see you soon.
- ZuwenaHaina shida, Omari. Tutaonana hivi karibuni.No problem, Omari. See you soon.
- OmariBaadaye, Zuwena.Later, Zuwena.
- ZuwenaKwaheri!Goodbye!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries karibuni, CC BY-SA 4.0.
