Expressions Flashcards
What does the phrase ‘አይዞህ (ayzoh)’ mean?
‘It’s okay’, ‘it’s going to be okay’, ‘I hope you didn’t hurt yourself’, or ‘don’t worry’
Used to comfort others whether they’re hurting emotionally or physically.
What is the meaning of ‘እሰይ! (issey!)’?
‘Good for you!’ or ‘I’m glad this happened’ when used positively; ‘you deserved it’ when used negatively
Context-dependent phrase used for reactions to news.
How is ‘እኔን (enen)’ used?
As a way of apologizing for accidentally hurting someone
Closest English equivalents include ‘it’s on me’, ‘my fault’, or ‘my bad’.
What is the function of the filler word ‘እንትን (intin)’?
Used when you can’t think of what to say
Can be placed anywhere in a sentence.
What does ‘እንብላ (inibla)’ mean?
‘Let’s eat’
Etiquette phrase used to invite someone to join in a meal.
What does ‘አደራ (adera)’ signify when said to someone?
A reminder of the responsibility they have for looking after a valuable belonging or child
Contains meanings of ‘please’, ‘take care of my child’, and ‘I’m trusting you’.
What does ‘በናትህ (benatih)’ mean?
‘Please’
Informal phrase mostly used with family and friends.
What is the meaning of ‘ጎበዝ (gobez)’?
‘Good job!’ or ‘c’mon’
Used to praise someone or encourage them.
What do ‘ይማርሽ (yimarish)’ and ‘እደጊ (idegi)’ signify when someone sneezes?
‘God forgive you’ (for adults) and ‘grow up’ (for kids)
Expressions wishing well for adults and children respectively.
What does ‘እንዴ! (indee!)’ express?
Indignation or surprise
Similar in sentiment to the idiom ‘for crying out loud’.
