Start with greetings

Common Igbo greetings for everyday conversation.

Learn how to say hello, check on someone, show respect, and say thank you in Igbo – with clear English meanings and notes.

SECTION 1

Basic hello and check‑in greetings.

These are the first words most learners use with family, elders, friends, and neighbours.

Igbo greeting	English meaning	Usage note
Kedu?	How are you?	Very common, friendly question used with most people.
Ị dị mma?	Are you well?	Another way to ask how someone is doing.
Ọ dị m mma.	I am fine.	Simple, polite reply to Kedu? or Ị dị mma?
A na m adi.	I am managing / I am okay.	Used when things are not perfect but you are coping.

SECTION 2

Use these when you meet someone at different times of the day.

Igbo greeting	English meaning	When to use it
Ụtụtụ ọma.	Good morning.	Use from early morning until late morning.
Ehihe ọma.	Good afternoon.	Use in the afternoon when greeting or arriving.
Abalị ọma.	Good evening / good night.	Used in the evening or when leaving at night.
Ka chi fo.	Good night / till morning.	Often said when leaving someone at night or going to sleep.

SECTION 3

These short phrases make your greetings sound kind and respectful, especially with elders.

Igbo phrase	English meaning	How it’s used
Daalụ.	Thank you.	General thank you in any setting.
Daalụ nke ukwuu.	Thank you very much.	Use when you deeply appreciate something.
Biko.	Please.	Add before or after a request to soften it.
Jisie ike.	Stay strong / keep it up.	Common after greeting someone who is working or going through a challenge.
Ngozi Chukwu dịrị gị.	God’s blessings be with you.	Very warm, respectful wish often used with elders.