zikomo
/zíˈko.mo/
The English phrase 'thank you' is translated into Chichewa as zikomo.
The word zikomo is an expression of gratitude used to say 'thank you'. In certain social contexts, it can also be used to acknowledge someone's presence by saying 'hello' or 'welcome'.
Meaning: an expression of gratitude (intj)
How does it change in a sentence?
To intensify the expression to mean 'thank you very much', you can add the word kwambiri after zikomo to form zikomo kwambiri.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 3 syllables, with the stress on the 2nd syllable: /zíˈko.mo/.
Did you know?
- Depending on the region, a response to zikomo might not be 'you are welcome' but rather another zikomo to acknowledge the mutual politeness.
- In Malawi, saying zikomo is often accompanied by a slight bow or a gesture where both hands are extended forward to show respect.
- The term zikomo is used widely across different regions in Malawi, Zambia, and Mozambique, serving as a unifying expression of politeness.
Examples in context
- Zikomo kwambiri chifukwa cha thandizo lanu.Thank you very much for your help.
- Zikomo chifukwa cha chakudya cha lero.Thank you for today's food.
- Zikomo, ndakufika bwino.Thank you, I have arrived safely.
Example conversation
Kondani receives a gift from Tionda.
- KondaniZikomo kwambiri, Tionda!Thank you very much, Tionda!
- TiondaChalora, Kondani.You are welcome, Kondani.
- KondaniNdizabwino kwambiri.It is very nice.
- TiondaNdine wokondwa kuti zakukondani.I am glad that you like it.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “thank you” translations and entries zikomo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
