Boyei bolamu
The Lingala word for welcome is Boyei bolamu.
Boyei bolamu is used specifically as a greeting to acknowledge someone's arrival at a place.
Meaning: greeting given upon someone's arrival (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, Boyei bolamu translates to "Your coming is good" or "Your arrival is good".
Did you know?
- In formal settings, a guest might be welcomed with a series of questions about their health and family before Boyei bolamu is ever spoken.
- Because 'bolamu' means 'goodness', using it in a greeting implies that the visitor's arrival brings a positive change or blessing to the household.
- Depending on the region, the pronunciation of Boyei bolamu can shift slightly, reflecting the influence of French, the official language of the Congo.
Example conversation
Patient greets Patientine as she arrives at his home.
- PatientBoyei bolamu, Patientine!Welcome, Patientine!
- PatientineMatondo mingi.Thank you very much.
- PatientOza malamu?Are you well?
- PatientineNazali malamu.I am well.
