Kí lo sọ?
The English phrase "what did you say?" is translated into Yoruba as Kí lo sọ?
This phrase is used as a question to ask someone to repeat something they have just said.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase Kí lo sọ? is composed of Kí (what), lo (a contraction of ni o, meaning "it is that you") and sọ (say/speak).
Which one should you use?
The contracted form Kí lo sọ? is a common way to say "what did you say?", whereas the more formal version is Kí ni o sọ?
How does it change in a sentence?
To change the level of respect or the number of people you are addressing, you can replace the singular pronoun o with the plural/polite pronoun ẹ to get Kí ni ẹ sọ?
Did you know?
- Depending on the tone used, Kí lo sọ? can shift from a polite request for repetition to an expression of shock or disbelief, similar to 'What did you just say?!'
- The pronoun ẹ used in the polite form Kí ni ẹ sọ? is not just for plural people, but is also the mandatory way to address any person who is older than you or in a position of respect. Using the singular 'o' for an elder is considered a social snub.
- The word sọ refers specifically to the act of speaking or articulating, while sọ̀rọ̀ is used for the general act of talking or conversing.
Examples in context
- Mo gbọ́ tán, ṣùgbọ́n kí lo sọ?I heard everything, but what did you say?
Example conversation
Titi and Femi are talking in a noisy room.
- TitiFemi, mo fẹ́ lọ sí ọjà.Femi, I want to go to the market.
- FemiKí lo sọ?What did you say?
- TitiMo sọ pé mo fẹ́ lọ sí ọjà.I said that I want to go to the market.
- FemiÀhá, mo gbọ́ báyìí.Ah, I hear you now.
