English to Somali dictionary
water in Somali
biyoApprox. reading: bee-yo
A clear liquid essential for life
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Translation
Somali meanings
biyo
A clear liquid essential for life
Useful combinations
Common phrases with water
drinking water
biyo la cabbo
Water that is safe to drink.
hot water
biyo kulul
cold water
biyo qabow
I am thirsty for water.
Biyo ayaan u oon badanahay.
Real usage
Example sentences
I need water.
healthBiyo ayaan u baahanahay.
The water is cold.
descriptiveBiyuhu waa qabow yihiin.
Can I have water please?
requestFadlan ma heli karaa biyo?
Drink more water.
instructionBiyo badan cab.
There is no water here.
negativeHalkan biyo ma jiraan.
Grammar
Grammar notes
Plural form
Biyo is a plural noun in Somali, even when referring to water in general. Verbs and adjectives agree with the plural form: biyuhu waa qabow (the water is cold).
No singular counterpart
Unlike English, biyo does not have a commonly used singular form. You cannot say biyo kaliya to mean one water unit — use koob biyo ah (a glass of water) instead.
Accuracy
Common mistakes
Treating biyo as singular
Avoid: Biyuhu wuu qabow yahay.
Use: Biyuhu waa qabow yihiin.
Biyo is grammatically plural in Somali. Use plural verb forms.
Using biyo for any liquid
Use: shaah, caano, casiir
Biyo only means water. Use specific words for tea, milk, juice, etc.
Keep learning
Related Somali words and phrases
Dictionary words
Questions
Questions about water in Somali
How do you say water in Somali?
Water in Somali is biyo. It is a plural noun and always used in plural form.
Is biyo singular or plural?
Biyo takes plural agreement in Somali, including plural forms for related verbs and adjectives.
How do you ask for water in Somali?
You can say Biyo ma heli karaa? (Can I have water?) or Fadlan biyo i sii (Please give me water).