ẹ ku abọ
To say "welcome back" in Yoruba, use ẹ ku abọ.
Meaning: welcome back (phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the polite plural pronoun ẹ, the greeting particle ku and abọ meaning to return or come back.
Which one should you use?
Use ẹ ku abọ for a single person you respect or for multiple people, whereas kú abọ is used for a single person you are close to or who is younger than you.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form ẹ ku abọ is the polite or plural version of the greeting.
Did you know?
- Yoruba has a vast system of greetings using the particle ku, creating specific phrases for almost every possible human situation, from waking up to experiencing a tragedy.
- In Yoruba culture, the greeting ẹ ku abọ is often accompanied by a physical gesture of respect, such as a slight bow or a specific hand way, depending on the seniority of the guest.
- The phrase ẹ ku abọ can be used as a way to acknowledge someone's survival or safe return after a dangerous ordeal, not just a casual trip.
Examples in context
- Ẹ ku abọ, ọmọ mi.Welcome back, my child.
- Ẹ ku abọ sí ilé.Welcome back home.
- Ẹ ku abọ, ẹ kú iṣẹ́.Welcome back, well done with your work.
Example conversation
Yejide returns home from a long trip and is greeted by Babatunde.
- YejideMo ti dé!I have arrived!
- BabatundeẸ ku abọ, Yejide.Welcome back, Yejide.
- YejideẸ ṣeun, Babatunde.Thank you, Babatunde.
- BabatundeṢé ìrìn-ajò rẹyìn dára?Was your journey good?
