How to Say ‘You’re Welcome,’ ‘Well Done,’ and Other Everyday Yoruba Expressions of Care
By: Chimdindu Ken-Anaukwu
In a Yoruba household, language isn’t just a tool for communication—it’s how love, respect, and care are passed from one heart to another. Whether it’s your aunty handing you a warm plate of amala or your neighbor helping you fix a flat tire, the right words make all the difference. Let’s explore the Yoruba expressions that make a home feel like home.
1. “Ẹ ṣe” – Thank You
Before we get to “you’re welcome,” let’s talk about the powerful “Ẹ ṣe.” Whether someone passes you water or saves your life, “Ẹ ṣe” is the go-to. It’s respectful and polite—used widely across generations.
Informal: “O ṣe” (used among close friends or juniors)
Formal/Plural: “Ẹ ṣe” (used for elders or groups)
2. “Kò tọ́” / “Ọwọ́ ò tó ẹ̀” – You’re Welcome
Yoruba doesn’t have a direct translation for “you’re welcome.” Instead, you’ll hear:
“Kò tọ́” – “It’s nothing.”
“Ọwọ́ ò tó ẹ̀” – Literally, “my effort doesn’t measure up to your thanks.”
These expressions communicate humility and grace, reinforcing the Yoruba values of modesty and community.
3. “Ẹ kú iṣẹ́” – Well Done
Yoruba has multiple ways to recognize effort. “Ẹ kú [something]” is the magic formula.
“Ẹ kú iṣẹ́” – Well done (for work)
“Ẹ kú ìròyìn” – Congratulations (for good news)
“Ẹ kú ìgbà” – You’re enduring well (used for those fasting, grieving, or waiting)
“Ẹ kú àtìpó” – Well done with carrying things on your head
Each phrase acknowledges the specific experience someone is going through. It’s not just polite—it’s empathetic.
4. “Ṣé dáadáa ni?” – Are You Well?
Beyond “Báwo ni?” (How are you?), you might hear:
“Ṣé dáadáa ni?” – Are things okay?
“Ṣé alàáfíà ni?” – Are you at peace?
Yoruba greetings dig deep. You’re not just asking for a status update—you’re checking their soul.
5. “Ẹ jọ̀ọ́” – Please / Excuse Me
“Ẹ jọ̀ọ́” is a gentle request, used for everything from asking questions to seeking forgiveness. It’s also used to get attention politely:
“Ẹ jọ̀ọ́, mo le beèrè?” – Please, may I ask?
“Ẹ jọ̀ọ́, ẹ ṣàánú mi.” – Please, have mercy on me.
6. “Mo nífẹ̀ẹ́ rẹ” – I Love You
Although not commonly said directly in older generations, younger Yoruba speakers now embrace “Mo nífẹ̀ẹ́ rẹ” (I love you). But traditionally, love is shown more through actions and care.
Alternative: “O wù mí gan” – I really like you.
7. “Ẹ má bínú” – Don’t Be Angry
Yoruba is very emotionally intelligent. If someone is upset or even slightly inconvenienced, “Ẹ má bínú” quickly softens the moment.
“Ṣé o bínú?” – Are you angry?
“Ẹ jọ̀ọ́, ẹ má bínú.” – Please, don’t be upset.
Why It Matters
These expressions aren’t just about politeness. They’re the rhythms of Yoruba life—tiny acts of recognition that keep relationships warm. They teach us empathy, humility, and grace.
Want to hear them spoken and practice them daily? The NKENNE app offers immersive Yoruba lessons so you can speak like you were raised in Ìbàdàn, Lagos, or Ìjẹ̀bú.
Download NKENNE today and start learning the language of home.
PS:
Next time someone says “Ẹ ṣe” to you, don’t just smile—say “Kò tọ́.” Let the language of care live on.