The 8 Most Useful “How Are You?” Questions Igbo People Actually Ask
By: Chimdindu Ken-Anaukwu
You step into a bustling market in Onitsha or spot an auntie at a village gathering in Enugu. They greet you with something beyond plain "Kedu?" and you freeze.
Most beginners learn only one version and miss the real flow. In everyday Igbo life, people switch greetings based on who is speaking: a friend, an elder, a market woman, or a colleague.
This guide gives you the 8 most common real-life variations. You get pronunciations, exact contexts, and natural replies. No stiff textbook lines. Just phrases you can use today.
You will finish ready to answer back smoothly and keep the talk going.
Why Igbo Greetings Change by Person
Igbo greetings show respect and closeness right away. A short "Kedu?" fits quick moments, but longer versions add warmth or politeness.
Friends stay casual and fun. Aunties and elders receive more respectful forms. Market women often keep it direct and lively.
These small changes make every chat feel natural. They create instant connection in real Nigerian settings.
Learning them helps you sound like you belong instead of sounding like a stranger.
The 8 Most Common Variations
Here are the ones you hear every day. Each includes a pronunciation guide, literal meaning, and best situations.
Kedu?
Pronunciation: keh-DOO
Literal: How? (short for how is it/you)
Use: Fast casual hello with anyone. Friends, peers, quick market exchanges. The most common starter.
Kedu ka ị mere?
Pronunciation: keh-DOO kah ee MEH-reh
Literal: How did you do? / How have you been?
Use: Friendly daily check-in. Perfect for friends, coworkers, or someone you have not seen in a few days.
Kedu ka ị dị?
Pronunciation: keh-DOO kah ee DEE
Literal: How are you (in state)?
Use: Very common polite option. Safe with almost everyone. Works well for aunties, market sellers, or new people.
Kedu ka ọ dị?
Pronunciation: keh-DOO kah oh DEE
Literal: How is it?
Use: Broad life check-in. Popular with acquaintances or when asking about general well-being. Market women use this often.
Kee kwanu?
Pronunciation: keh KWAH-noo
Literal: How now? (with extra emphasis)
Use: Playful and energetic with friends or peers. Feels like "How now?" in Pidgin. Adds lively vibe.
Olee otu i mere?
Pronunciation: oh-LEH oh-too ee MEH-reh
Literal: How did you do it? / What's the situation?
Use: More curious or slightly formal. Good for elders or when you want to show genuine interest.
Kedu maka? (or Kedu maka ezinụlọ gi?)
Pronunciation: keh-DOO mah-kah (or keh-DOO mah-kah eh-zee-noo-loh ghee)
Literal: How about? (or How about your family?)
Use: Warm follow-up with family or close friends. Asking about home shows real care.
Kee ije?
Pronunciation: keh EE-jeh
Literal: How is the journey/progress?
Use: Casual with people on the move or friends. Checks if life is moving smoothly.
These cover most daily situations. Beginners should start with 1 through 3.
How to Respond Naturally
Keep answers short and positive. Igbo style loves optimism.
Adị m mma. (ah-DEE mm MAH) — I'm fine.
Ọ dị mma. (oh DEE mm MAH) — It's good / I'm good.
A dịghị m mma. (ah DEE-ghee mm MAH) — Not so good (when you are honest).
Anyị na-eme nke ọma. — We're doing well (for family questions).
Finish with "gịnị kwanu ikwu?" (and you?) to return the question. It keeps the conversation alive.
Quick Practice Tips
Choose one variation today. Say it out loud five times.
Use it next time you speak to an Igbo friend or family member. Watch their reaction.
In markets across Anambra, Enugu, Imo, Abia, or Ebonyi, open with "Kedu ka ị dị?" Sellers respond warmly right away.
Record yourself on your phone. Compare to native speakers in NKENNE audio.
Common mistake: Do not use overly formal versions with close friends. It feels distant.
Challenge: Greet three people this week with a new variation. Notice how the chat improves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is "Kedu?" rude or too short?
No. It is very common and friendly. Context decides everything. Fine for quick meetings.
What is the most polite way for elders?
Use "Kedu ka ị dị?" or add "nna anyị" / "nne anyị" if speaking directly. It shows clear respect.
Do responses always need to be positive?
Usually yes. Igbo culture prefers upbeat energy. But "A dịghị m mma" is acceptable when true.
How much do dialects change these?
Some like "Kee ije?" appear more in certain areas. Core ones like Kedu work everywhere.
Can I mix with English or Pidgin?
Yes. Many people say "Kedu? How far?" in daily talk. Mixing feels completely natural.
Why are there so many versions?
Igbo pays attention to tone, relationship, and moment. Small changes carry big meanin
Conclusion
These 8 variations turn simple greetings into real human connections. They prove you understand the culture, not just the words.
Start using them now. Watch conversations open up in markets, family visits, and daily life.
You have the tools. Try one today and feel the shift.
Want to hear them the right way? With NKENNE, the first African language learning app, tap into "Igbo Lesson 1" for greetings lessons. Download now and grow your Igbo confidence fast.