How to say "How are you?" in Somali
A common singular greeting used to ask how one person is doing.
This page is a learning aid and has not yet been certified by a named Somali reviewer. Check important communication with a qualified speaker.
English
How are you?
Somali
Sidee tahay?
Approx. reading: see-day ta-hay
Usage
When and how to use this phrase
Register
This phrase is best for casual, everyday conversations with friends and family.
Context
A common singular greeting used to ask how one person is doing.
Keep the conversation going
Natural reply
You say
Sidee tahay?
How are you?
A possible reply
Waan fiicanahay, mahadsanid.
I am fine, thank you.
Approx. reading: waan fee-ah-na-hay, mah-had-san-eed
A simple positive reply. The speaker can then ask the question back.
Variation
Alternative ways to say it
Iska warran?
Approx. reading: is-ka war-ran
How are things? / What's new?
A familiar conversational greeting rather than a literal word-for-word match.
Nabad miyaa?
Approx. reading: na-bad mee-yaa
Is everything well?
A greeting framed around peace and well-being.
In conversation
Examples in context
Sidee tahay maanta?
How are you today?
Maanta means today.
Hooyo, sidee tahay?
Mom, how are you?
A direct family example using hooyo, mother or mom.
Use with care
Common mistakes
Avoid: Sidee tihiin? when speaking to one person
Use: Sidee tahay?
Tahay addresses one person here; tihiin is used when addressing more than one person.
More Greetings
Related phrases
View all Greetings phrases →Need a custom sentence?
Use the English ⇄ Somali translator for short custom text, then return to the learning guides for context and usage.