arí
The Quechua word for "yes" is arí.
arí is a particle used to indicate agreement or acceptance.
Meaning: word used to indicate agreement or acceptance (particle)
Did you know?
- While English speakers use 'yes' to answer almost any question, Quechua speakers often avoid using arí to answer 'yes' or 'no' questions, preferring to repeat the verb instead.
- Quechua lacks a single word for 'no' that functions exactly like the opposite of arí, often using the phrase maná with a verb.
- In some regions, a soft 'hmm' sound is more culturally appropriate than saying arí when agreeing with an elder to show respect.
Examples in context
- Arí, munawanki.Yes, you love me.This sentence shows how to use arí to express affection.Tatoeba #773545 by marloncori, translation #773546 by marloncori
- Arí, chayqa wasiy.Yes, that's my house.This sentence shows how to use arí to identify a possession.Tatoeba #773424 by marloncori, translation #773425 by marloncori
- Arí, warmiyuq kani.Yes, I am married.This sentence shows how to use arí to state one's marital status.Tatoeba #773377 by marloncori, translation #773378 by marloncori
Example conversation
Sumaq and Jose are talking about going to the market.
- SumaqQhali kashanki, Jose?Are you well, Jose?
- JoseArí, allillan kani.Yes, I am well.
- SumaqQhatuman rishunchu?Shall we go to the market?
- JoseArí, rishun.Yes, let's go.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “yes” translations and entries arí, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
