Learn Igbo: Numbers, Greetings & Conversation

Greetings and courtesy

Say hello, ask how someone is, thank people and wish them a safe journey.

Lesson 1 of 3

Hello, how are you?

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Ada

Chidi

Ada

Chidi

Lesson 2 of 3

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A learner’s guide lists four morning formulas: Ịsaala chi?, Ịbọọla chi, Ịteela ụra and Ụtụtụ ọma.

The dictionary explains that the verb behind Ịsaala chi? means “survive the night”, so the greeting is a gentle “Are you up?”.

Lesson 3 of 3

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Daalụ comes from Da alụ ọlụ, “keep up the work”. The verb daa carries the sense of “keep doing”, so Daalụ is both thanks and encouragement.

Nzu, white chalk, is a symbol of purity and gladness used to welcome visitors or news of a birth. Accepting the chalk is a rite of hospitality.

★ quiz

How do you say “Hello”? → Ndewo. Ndewo is the everyday general greeting.

What does “Kedụ ka ị mere?” mean? → How are you?. It is the standard “How are you?”.

What does “Ụtụtụ ọma” mean? → Good morning. Ụtụtụ ọma is good morning.

What does “Da eje” wish someone? → A safe journey. It is said to people setting out.

What is “Biko”? → Please. Biko means please.

Daalụ is both thanks and what? → Encouragement. It encourages someone at work: keep it up.