Somali, a Cushitic language, is predominantly spoken in Somalia, Somaliland, Djibouti, Ethiopia, and Kenya. It’s known for its complex phonology and syntax. Learning Somali can significantly enhance your experience in the Horn of Africa, allowing for deeper cultural connections and understanding. This lesson covers essential conversational phrases and questions in Somali, designed to facilitate various social interactions.

Greetings

• Hello/Hi – “Salaan” / “Haye”
• Good morning – “Subax wanaagsan”
• Good afternoon – “Galab wanaagsan”
• Good evening – “Habeen wanaagsan”
• Goodbye – “Nabad gelyo” (formal) / “Macasalaama” (informal)

Introducing Yourself or Others

• My name is [name]. – “Magacaygu waa [name].”
• This is [name]. – “Kani waa [name].”
• I am from [country]. – “Waxaan ka imid [country].”
• I live in [city/place]. – “Waxaan ku noolahay [city/place].”

Asking for Directions or People

• Where is the [place]? – “[Place] halkaas ma yahay?”
• How do I get to [place]? – “Sideen ku tagaa [place]?”
• Is this the way to [place]? – “Ma kan waa jidka aada [place]?”
• Can you show me on the map? – “Ma i tusi kartaa khariidada?”

Solving a Misunderstanding

• Sorry, I don’t understand. – “Waan ka xumahay, ma fahmin.”
• Can you please repeat that? – “Fadlan, ma ku celin kartaa?”
• I mean… – “Waxaan ula jeedaa…”
• What does [word] mean? – “Maxaa [word] micnaheedu yahay?”

Farewell Expressions

• See you later – “Markale ayaan arki doonaa”
• Take care – “Is ilaali”
• Have a good day – “Maalin wanaagsan ku qabo”

Travel and Dining

• I would like to book a room. – “Waxaan rabaa inaan qol ballansado.”
• Can I see the menu, please? – “Ma arki karaa liiska cunnada, fadlan?”
• I am vegetarian. – “Waxaan ahay khudaar cune.”
• The bill, please. – “Biilka, fadlan.”

Shopping

• How much does this cost? – “Intee le’eg ayuu ku kacayaa tan?”
• Do you have this in another size? – “Ma leedahay tan cabir kale?”
• I’m just looking, thanks. – “Waxaan kaliya fiirinayaa, mahadsanid.”
• Can I pay by card? – “Ma ka bixin karaa kaarka?”

Dating and Love

• You look beautiful. (to a woman) / You look handsome. (to a man) – “Aad ayaa u qurux badan tahay.” / “Aad ayaa u qurux badan tahay.”
• I miss you. – “Waan ku xiisay.”
• I love you. – “Waan ku jeclahay.”
• Would you like to go out with me? – “Ma rabtaa inaad ila baxdo?”

Emergencies

• Help! – “Caawi!”
• Call the police! – “Booliiska wac!”
• I need a doctor. – “Waxaan u baahanahay dhakhtar.”
• Where is the nearest hospital? – “Aaway isbitaalka ugu dhow?”

These phrases provide a solid foundation for basic communication in Somali. Practice speaking and listening regularly, engage with Somali media, and don’t hesitate to converse with native speakers. Remember, language learning is a journey—embrace mistakes as learning opportunities and continue to explore the rich linguistic and cultural nuances of the Somali language.