Essential Somali Greetings
These are the first words you should learn. The most common greeting is the Islamic one.
- Hello (Peace be upon you) – As-salamu alaykum
- Response to Hello – Wa-alaikum as-salam
- Good morning – Subax wanaagsan
- Good afternoon / evening – Galab wanaagsan
- Good night – Habeen wanaagsan
Asking How Someone Is
After the initial greeting, it's polite to ask about the other person's well-being.
- How are you? – See tahay?
- I am fine, thank you. – Waan fiicanahay, mahadsanid.
- What's new? – Maxaa cusub?
- Everything is fine. – Waa caadi.
Note: See tahay? is a very common and versatile phrase used for both men and women.
Introducing Yourself
- What is your name? – Magacaa?
- My name is... – Magacaygu waa...
- Nice to meet you – Barasho wanaagsan
- Where are you from? – Xagee ka timid?
Example: My name is John. → Magacaygu waa John.
Polite Phrases & Farewells
- Thank you – Mahadsanid
- You're welcome – Adooba mahadsan
- Please – Fadlan
- Goodbye – Nabad gelyo
- See you later – Ilaa markale
Start a Conversation Today
Learning these phrases is the first step to having your first conversation in Somali. Practice them daily. Use our English to Somali Translator to hear pronunciations and build more complex sentences for your introductions.
