nizhóní
/nɪ̀ʒónɪ́/
The English phrase "you're beautiful" is expressed in Navajo as nizhóní.
nizhóní is a compliment used to indicate that a person is physically or spiritually attractive.
How do you pronounce it?
/nɪ̀ʒónɪ́/
Did you know?
- The concept behind nizhóní is central to the Navajo philosophy of Hózhó, which blends beauty, health, and balance. To call someone beautiful is to acknowledge their inner peace and spiritual alignment.
- The word nizhóní is not actually an adjective, but a noun that has been repurposed to function like a verb.
- Because nizhóní encompasses spiritual health, using this word can be a way of wishing someone well-being rather than just commenting on their appearance.
Example conversation
Michelle and Brandon are getting ready for a dance.
- MichelleNizhóní.You're beautiful.
- BrandonAhéheeʼ, Michelle.Thank you, Michelle.
- MichelleDoo lání hólǫ́.You look great today.
- BrandonNizhóní níyé.You're beautiful too.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry nizhóní, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries nizhóní, CC BY-SA 4.0.
