Enkosi kakhulu
The English phrase "thank you so much" is translated into Xhosa as Enkosi kakhulu.
Enkosi kakhulu is used to express a high level of gratitude to someone.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of Enkosi (thank you) and kakhulu (very much/greatly).
Which one should you use?
While Enkosi kakhulu means "Thank you very much", the form Enkosi ngakumbi means "Thank you especially".
How does it change in a sentence?
Removing kakhulu from the phrase changes the meaning from "thank you so much" to a standard "thank you".
Did you know?
- In deeply traditional contexts, the phrase Enkosi kakhulu may be followed by a blessing or a wish for the person's ancestors to be pleased.
- The word khulu inside kakhulu also means 'big' or 'large'. When you say Enkosi kakhulu, you are literally describing your gratitude as being 'big'.
- In some traditional Xhosa contexts, gratitude is expressed not just with Enkosi kakhulu but through the act of sharing food or drink with the provider.
Examples in context
- Enkosi kakhulu.Thank you so much.
Example conversation
Lwazi gave Siyabonga a gift.
- SiyabongaEnkosi kakhulu, Lwazi.Thank you so much, Lwazi.
- LwaziKulungile, Siyabonga.It is okay, Siyabonga.
- SiyabongaUyandithanda kakhulu.You love me so much.
- LwaziEwe, ndiyakuthanda.Yes, I love you.
