ungubani?
The English phrase "who are you?" is translated into Xhosa as ungubani?
This phrase is used to ask for the identity of a person.
Which one should you use?
While ungubani? specifically addresses "you", the form ngubani? is used when the identity of a person is unknown, such as when someone is knocking at a door and you ask "who is it?"
Did you know?
- When answering ungubani?, a person might not give their name first, but rather their 'isiduko' or clan name. This provides a deeper social identity than a legal name.
- In a formal setting, the singular ungubani? is replaced by a plural form even if only one person is being addressed. This is a linguistic gesture of honor known as 'plural of respect'.
- The phrasing of identity questions in Xhosa often reflects the 'Ubuntu' philosophy, emphasizing that a person is defined by their relationship to others rather than as an isolated individual.
Example conversation
Siyabonga is answering the door and sees a stranger.
- SiyabongaMolo, ungubani?Hello, who are you?
- ZolekaNdinguZoleka, ndize kukunceda.I am Zoleka, I have come to help you.
- SiyabongaWamkelekile, Zoleka.You are welcome, Zoleka.
- ZolekaEnkosi kakhulu.Thank you very much.
