ee
In Luhya, the English phrase "yes" is translated as ee.
The word ee is a particle used to indicate agreement or acceptance.
Meaning: word used to indicate agreement or acceptance (particle)
Did you know?
- When speaking to highly respected elders, a single, clipped ee can be seen as blunt or rude. To show proper deference, the sound is often softened or accompanied by a more pronounced physical gesture.
- The use of ee is often inseparable from a head nod. In many Luhya social settings, saying the word without the corresponding gesture can make the agreement feel incomplete or insincere.
- If you repeat ee, ee in rapid succession during a conversation, you are not just saying 'yes' twice, but are actually signaling 'I am listening, please continue'.
Examples in context
- Ee, mbe.Yes, brother.
Example conversation
Nasimiyu asks Wanyonyi if he is ready to leave.
- NasimiyuWanyonyi, obulire khulia?Wanyonyi, are you ready to go?
- WanyonyiEe, nali khulila.Yes, I am ready.
- NasimiyuKhulia khulila khulwa?Shall we go now?
- WanyonyiEe, khulia.Yes, let's go.
