There is no space here for a definitive glossary; Ethiopia has 83 languages and more than 200 dialects! Fortunately, Amharic or Amarigna is widely spoken through the country.
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Tenastilign = Hello/how are you? |
Chiao! = Good bye |
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Sintino? = How much is it? |
Widdino = It’s expensive |
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Efellegalow = I want |
Alfelegum = I don’t want |
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Tiru new = It’s good |
Tiru aydellem = It’s not good |
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Simeh man new? = (Masc) What’s your name? |
Simesh man new? = (Fem) What’s your name? |
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Leselassa = Soft drink |
Amboha = Mineral water |
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Birra = Beer |
Wuha = Water |
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Ow (as in how) = Yes |
Ishi = OK |
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Aydellem = No |
Shintibait = Toilet |
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Buna = Coffee |
Shai = Tea |
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Injera = Sour dough pancake |
Wot = Sauce or stew |
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Tela = Local beer |
Tej = Honey wine |
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Yekirta = Excuse me |
Amesegenalo = Thank you |
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Na! = Come |
Hid! = Go |
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Chiger yellem = No problem |
Beka = Enough |
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Bewhala = Afterwards/later |
Qonjo = Beautiful |