Ẹ kú àbọ̀
The Yoruba phrase for "welcome" is Ẹ kú àbọ̀.
This phrase is specifically used for someone arriving at a destination, rather than a general "welcome" to a concept or a person's presence.
Meaning: greeting given upon someone's arrival (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of Ẹ (plural/polite pronoun), kú (a greeting particle) and àbọ̀ (arrival). Literally, it means "Greetings to your arrival".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The use of Ẹ makes Ẹ kú àbọ̀ the standard polite or formal way to welcome someone, including elders or groups. Removing the honorific prefix Ẹ makes the greeting Kú àbọ̀ informal, used for one person of equal or lower status.
Did you know?
- The particle kú is used in dozens of Yoruba greetings to acknowledge a specific state or activity, such as Ẹ kú iṣẹ́ for someone working. It does not mean 'die' in this context, though it is a homonym for the verb 'to die'.
- If you are welcoming someone into your home, the greeting Ẹ kú àbọ̀ is frequently followed by an immediate offer of water or refreshment.
- In Yoruba culture, the act of welcoming someone often involves the physical gesture of a slight bow or a nod of the head. This physical accompaniment is as important as saying Ẹ kú àbọ̀ to convey respect.
Examples in context
- Ẹ kú àbọ̀ sílé.Welcome home.
- Ẹ kú àbọ̀ sí ìlú wa.Welcome to our city.
- Ẹ kú àbọ̀, ṣé ẹ ti fẹ́ gba oúnjẹ?Welcome, would you like to eat some food?
Example conversation
Titi is greeting Olumide as he arrives at her house.
- TitiẸ kú àbọ̀, Olumide.Welcome, Olumide.
- OlumideẸ ṣe, Titi.Thank you, Titi.
- TitiṢé ẹ fẹ́ jẹ oúnjẹ?Do you want to eat?
- OlumideBẹ́ẹ̀ ni, ẹ ṣeun.Yes, thank you.
