thengiũ
The English phrase 'thank you' is expressed in Kikuyu as thengiũ or nĩ wega.
Meaning: an expression of gratitude (intj)
Ways to say it
| Kikuyu | IPA |
|---|---|
| thengiũ | |
| nĩ wega | /ne wɛɣa/ |
To express gratitude, you can use thengiũ or the more common conversational phrase nĩ wega.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase nĩ wega literally translates to 'it is good' or 'it is well'.
Which one should you use?
While both forms are used to express gratitude, nĩ wega is the most frequently used expression for 'thank you' in everyday conversational Kikuyu.
Did you know?
- The phrase nĩ wega reflects a linguistic pattern in many Bantu languages where gratitude is expressed by describing the state of the world as 'good' or 'well' rather than thanking a person directly.
- Saying nĩ wega can sometimes function as a way to say 'that is sufficient' or 'no more is needed' during a transaction.
- In many Kikuyu contexts, a slight nod of the head often accompanies nĩ wega to show genuine respect.
Example sentences for Kikuyu are not verified yet.
Example conversation
Wanjiku gives Maina a gift.
- WanjikuHĩhĩ, haha nĩ kĩndũ gĩakwa kĩrĩ we.Here, this is my gift for you.
- MainaThengiũ, Wanjiku!Thank you, Wanjiku!
- WanjikuNĩ wega, Maina.You're welcome, Maina.
- MainaNĩ ndagaĩire kĩndũ kĩu.I really wanted that thing.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “thank you” translations and entries nĩ wega, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
