Smart Conversation English Afaan Oromoo

送人玫瑰，余香久远！
Smart Conversation English - Afaan Oromoo & Chinese
Smart American Conversation

In
English,
Afaan Oromoo &
Chinese
Author: Beresa Abebe (毕安)

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
April, 2022
Contents
Chapter – 1.................................................................................................................. 1
1. Basic Social Encounters......................................................................... 1
1.1. Greetings ~ Nagaa gaaffachu .................................................... 1
1.1.1. Simple Greeting ...................................................................... 1
1.1.2. General Greetings .................................................................. 1
1.1.3. Greetings for various times of the day .......................... 2
1.1.4. Greetings a person you haven’t seen in a long time2
1.1.5. Welcome someone who has returned ........................... 3
1.1.6. Expressing surprise at meeting someone .................... 3
1.1.7. After you have greeted someone ..................................... 4
1.1.8. Concerning a journey or vacation .................................. 5
1.2. Small Talk ~ Haasaa gabaabaa ~ 闲聊 Xiánliáo ........... 7
1.2.1. Expressing your state of health & happiness ............. 7
1.2.2. Telling how you have been doing ~ positive .......... 8
1.2.3. Telling how you have been doing – neutral............. 8
1.2.4. Telling how you have been doing ~ negative ......... 9
1.2.5. Explaining that you have been busy......................... 11
1.2.6. Inviting friends for drinks or coffee ......................... 12
1.3. Introduction ................................................................................... 13
1.3.1. Introducing someone to someone else ................... 13
1.3.2. When you have just been introduced to someone
14
1.3.3. After you have been introduced to someone ....... 16
1.3.4. Asking how someone is .................................................. 17
1.3.5. Asking someone how things are going ................... 18
1.4. Ending Conversation ................................................................. 19
1.4.1. Signaling the end of conversation ............................. 19
1.4.2. Ending telephone conversation.................................. 20
1.4.3. Ending Conversation abruptly .................................... 21
1.5. Goodbye ........................................................................................... 22
1.5.1. Simple goodbye .................................................................. 22
1.5.2. Taking leave of someone ............................................... 24
1.5.3. Leaving a place ................................................................... 25
1.5.4. When someone is leaving on a journey .................. 27
1.5.5. Making plan to keep in touch with someone ....... 27
1.6. Agreeing ........................................................................................... 28
1.6.1. Simple Agreement............................................................. 28
1.6.2. Stating your concurrence .............................................. 29
1.6.3. Expressing acceptance .................................................... 30
1.6.4. Stating that you understand......................................... 33
1.6.5. Making sure you understand ....................................... 34
1.7. Disagreeing Walii galuu dhiisu ............................................. 36
1.7.1. Stating simple disagree or refusal ............................. 36
1.7.2. Stating categorical Disagreement .............................. 36
1.7.3. Stating strong disagreement ........................................ 37
1.7.4. Stating your disagreement with preposition ....... 38
1.7.5. Expressing Rejection ....................................................... 38
1.7.6. Expressing refusal............................................................. 39
1.7.7. Stating that someone is wrong ................................... 43
1.7.8. Arguing about the facts .................................................. 44
Chapter – 2............................................................................................................... 46
2. Conversational Encounters .............................................................. 46
2.1.Focusing Attention ............................................................................. 46
2.1.1. Getting someone’s attention ................................................ 46
2.1.2. Getting someone to listen to you ....................................... 46
2.1.3. Directing attention to an object ......................................... 47
2.1.4. Confirming that you are paying attention..................... 48
2.2. Launching the Conversation......................................................... 48
2.2.1. Starting an informal conversation .................................... 48
2.2.2. Inviting someone to talk ........................................................ 49
2.2.3. Coming to the point of the matter..................................... 50
2.2.4. Requesting that the speaker get to the point .............. 51
2.2.5. Various Conversational Phrase .......................................... 51
2.2.6. Encouraging someone to speak plainly ......................... 52
2.2.7. Noting digreessions in conversation ............................... 54
2.2.8. Repeating what you have said ............................................ 55
2.2.9. When someone is being repetitious ................................ 56
2.2.10. Agreeing with speaker ......................................................... 57
2.2.11. Answer to “How did you find out?” .......................... 57
2.3. Making Friends ................................................................................... 59
2.3.1. Expressing Friends................................................................... 59
2.3.2. Commenting on the uniqueness of someone .............. 60
2.3.3. Commenting on personal similarities ............................. 60
2.3.4. Expressions used to make friends at a bar or café .. 61
2.3.5. Inviting Someone to dance ................................................... 62
2.3.6. Approaching the opposite sex ............................................ 62
2.3.7. Asking someone for a date ................................................... 64
2.3.8. Turning someone down......................................................... 66
2.3.9. Bringing a conversation to an end .................................... 67
2.4. Complex Matters ................................................................................ 67
2.4.1. Expressing support for someone ...................................... 67
2.4.2. Offering helps to someone.................................................... 68
2.4.3. Expressing trust in someone ............................................... 69
2.4.4. Expressing encouragement.................................................. 70
2.4.5. Encouraging someone to try something ........................ 71
2.4.6. Encouraging someone to stop stalling and do
something ................................................................................................. 72
2.4.7. Expressing dissatisfaction with someone’s effort ..... 73
2.4.8. Asking someone to wait......................................................... 73
2.4.9. Encouraging someone to be patient and take things
slowly .......................................................................................................... 74
2.4.10. Encouraging someone to prudent – Cliché’s ............. 77
2.4.11. Giving advise to someone whose life too busy ........ 78
2.4.12. Giving instruction to someone you have lent
something to ............................................................................................ 78
2.4.13. Introducing a secret .............................................................. 79
2.4.14. Instruction about keeping a secret ................................ 80
2.4.15. Promising to keep secret .................................................... 82
2.4.16. Forgetfullness .......................................................................... 82
2.4.17. When you are in trouble ..................................................... 84
2.4.18. When someone is in trouble ............................................. 84
2.4.19. When you are out of money .............................................. 86
2.4.20. When someone is in debt ................................................... 88
2.4.21. Expressing stress or anxiety ............................................. 88
2.4.22. When you are overworked and doing too much .... 90
2.4.23. When someone is anxious and under stress ............. 90
2.4.24. Encouraging someone no to be offended – informal
........................................................................................................................ 91
2.4.25. Encouraging someone not to be excited ..................... 91
2.4.26. Encouraging someone to relax ........................................ 92
2.4.27. Encourage someone to be less aggressive – informal
........................................................................................................................ 93
2.4.28. When someone is in cold and unfeeling – informal
........................................................................................................................ 94
2.4.29. What to say to smoker ......................................................... 95
2.4.30. A smoker’s response to non-smoker’s complaint .. 96
2.4.31. Questions a smoker might ask ......................................... 97
2.5. Disputes .................................................................................................. 97
2.5.1. Criticism of someone with whom you disagree ......... 97
2.5.2. Calling someone crazy ............................................................ 99
2.5.3. Questioning someone’s sanity ......................................... 100
2.5.4. Asking about the alertness of someone ...................... 102
2.5.5. Encouraging someone to be more sensible .............. 102
2.5.6. Asking in disblief or disagreement ................................ 103
2.5.7. When someone says something outrageous ............ 103
2.6. Discussion and Resolution ......................................................... 104
2.6.1. Asking for an explanation .................................................. 104
2.6.2. Encouraging an explanation ............................................. 105
2.6.3. When you don’t understand someone......................... 105
2.6.4. When someone doesn’t understand you .................... 106
2.6.5. Criticizing someone’s misunderstanding ................... 106
2.6.6. Attempting to put an end to a misunderstanding .. 107
2.6.7. Encouraging someone to believe you .......................... 108
2.6.8. Asking to be trusted.............................................................. 109
2.6.9. Stating that something is settled .................................... 110
2.6.10. Claiming that something is easy to understand ... 111
2.6.11. Showing disbelief ................................................................ 111
2.6.12. Expressing ignorance ........................................................ 112
2.6.13. Expressing reluctance ....................................................... 113
2.6.14. Making the bests of a bad situation ............................ 115
2.6.15. Blaming something on fate or destiny ...................... 119
2.6.16. Knowing something after the fact ............................... 120
2.6.17. Expressing indifference ................................................... 121
Chapter -3 ............................................................................................................. 123
3. Polite Encounters .................................................................................... 123
3.1. Prefaces ............................................................................................... 123
3.1.1. A preface to asking questions .......................................... 123
3.1.2. A preface to making questions – formal ..................... 123
3.1.3. A preface to making a statement – informal ............. 124
3.1.4. A preface making a statement – very polite.............. 124
3.2. Communication Barrier ............................................................... 125
3.2.1. Asking if someone speak particular languages ....... 125
3.2.2. When you don’t speak particular languages ............ 125
3.2.3. When you don understand what was said................. 125
3.2.4. When you do not understand what a foreign visitor
has said .................................................................................................... 126
3.3. Telling Time ...................................................................................... 127
3.3.1. Asking the time of day ......................................................... 127
3.3.2. The time is 12:00 o’clock.................................................... 128
3.3.3. The time on the hour ............................................................ 128
3.3.4. The time is approximate..................................................... 129
3.3.5. The time is ten minutes past the hour ......................... 129
3.3.6. The time is fifteen or thirty minutes past the hour 129
3.3.7. The time is forty minutes past the hour ..................... 130
3.3.8. The time is forty five minutes past the hour ............ 130
3.3.9. The time is fifty minutes past the hour ....................... 130
3.3.10. When a timepiece is not accurate ............................... 131
3.4. General pleasantries ..................................................................... 131
3.4.1. When your moving about may bother someone .... 131
3.4.2. Offering to let someone enter in front of you ........... 132
3.4.3. Apologizing to someone you have bothered ............ 132
3.4.4. Returning someone’s good wishes ................................ 132
3.4.5. Agreering to something – polite ..................................... 133
3.4.5. Explaining that you will attend to someone soon .. 133
3.4.6. Asking for permission to leave place – polite .......... 133
3.4.7. Saying good-bye – polite .................................................... 133
3.4.8. Saying good-bye – informal .............................................. 134
3.5. Business Pleasantries ................................................................... 135
3.5.1. Announcing your arrival for an appointment .......... 135
3.5.2. Being assertive – polite ....................................................... 135
3.6. Apologizing and taking responsibility .................................. 136
3.6.1. Sincere apologies ................................................................... 136
3.6.2. Offering a very polite apologies ...................................... 137
3.6.3. Accepting the blame for something .............................. 138
3.6.4. Admitting your errors ......................................................... 138
3.6.5. Promising never to repeat a particular mistake ..... 139
3.6.6. Offering to make amends ................................................... 140
3.6.7. Asking for forgiveness ......................................................... 140
3.7. Forgiving ............................................................................................. 141
3.7.1. Simple forgiviness ................................................................. 141
3.7.2. Forgiveness – informal........................................................ 142
3.7.3. Encouraging someone to end a dispute ...................... 143
3.8. Showing Gratitude ......................................................................... 143
3.8.1. Saying “thank you” – formal ............................................. 143
3.8.2. Saying “thank you” – informal ......................................... 144
3.9. Returning Thanks ........................................................................... 145
3.9.1. Acknowledging someone’s thanks – formal.............. 145
3.9.2. Acknowledging someone’s thanks – informal ......... 145
3.10. Special Occassions ....................................................................... 146
3.10.1. Seeing a new baby .............................................................. 146
3.10.2. Asking about new baby .................................................... 147
3.10.3. Congratulating someone for doing a good job ...... 147
3.10.4. Wishing someone well ...................................................... 148
3.8.5. Expressing sympathy at a funeral or wake ............... 149
Chapter – 4............................................................................................................ 150
4. Impolite Encounters ......................................................................... 150
4.1. Jechoota Kabajaa hin qabne Kutaa 1ffaa .......................... 150
4.1.1. When someone is conceited or vain...................... 150
4.1.2. When someone is overbearing ................................ 152
4.1.3. When someone has been insolent or rude –
shocked response ............................................................................... 153
4.1.4. When someone has been insolent or rude – firm
response 154
4.1.5. When someone has been insolent or rude – rude
response 155
4.1.6. Encouraging a timid person ...................................... 155
4.1.7. Insulating a coward ....................................................... 156
4.1.8. When someone argues too much............................ 157
4.1.9. When someone is being annoying.......................... 158
4.1.10. Inviting an annoying person to leave ................... 159
4.2. Jechoota aarii, dhabii, kabaajafi biroo ............................ 160
4.2.1. When someone is very annoying and hurful .... 160
4.2.2. Getting someone to stop doing something ........ 161
4.2.3. When someone is making you angry – rude ..... 161
4.2.4. Asking to be left alone .................................................. 162
4.2.5. Describing a bothersome person............................ 162
4.2.6. When someone has done something wrong –
polite 163
amazed 164
sarcastic 164
4.2.9. When someone make an unwelcome intervention
165
4.2.10. Telling someone to stay away or keep out ......... 166
4.2.11. Asking someone’s intention ...................................... 166
4.3. Jechoota lola, qofa, hojaafi biroo ....................................... 167
4.3.1. Asking someone to leave your property alone 167
4.3.2. Asking someone to stay out of your affairs........ 167
4.3.3. When someone is harassing you – angry and
direct 168
4.3.4. When someone is harassing you – rude .............. 168
4.3.5. When someone is presumptuous ........................... 169
4.3.6. When someone has underestimated your
intelligence ............................................................................................ 169
4.3.7. When someone interrupts with an opinion ...... 170
4.3.8. When someone overreacts ........................................ 171
4.4. Jechoota Haqa, dhugaa, adabbii, caaldhessa ............... 171
4.4.1. When punishment is in store for someone ........ 171
4.4.2. Explaining harsh justice .............................................. 172
4.4.3. Threatening retaliation ............................................... 172
4.4.4. Requesting silence ......................................................... 173
4.4.5. Requesting someone to stop needless talk ........ 173
4.4.6. When someone is not doing enough ..................... 174
4.4.7. When someone trouble ............................................... 174
4.4.8. Expressing mock sympathy....................................... 175
4.4.9. Expressing mock sympathy – sarcastic ............... 175
4.4.10. When you are helpless to help – rude .................. 176
Chapter – 1
1. Basic Social Encounters
1.1. Greetings ~ Nagaa gaaffachu
1.1.1. Simple Greeting
Hi! Hi! 你好呀 Nǐ hǎo ya！
Hello! Hello! 你好 Nǐ hǎo！
Hello there! Akkam jirtu! 你们好 Nǐmen hǎo!
Howdy! Akkam! 你好 Nǐ hǎo！
Hey! Akkam! 你好 Nǐ hǎo！
1.1.2. General Greetings
How are you? Akkam jirta/tu? 你好吗 Nǐ hǎo ma?
How’s it going? ~~ Akkam sitti jira? ~~ 怎么样了 Zěnme yàngle?
How’s it been? ~~ Akkam jira? 怎么样 Zěnme yang?
How is everything? Hundii nagaadha? 一切还好吗 Yīqiè hái hǎo ma?
How have you been? Akkam jirta tibanna?
你最近怎么样 Nǐ zuìjìn zěnme yàng?
How you been? (informal)
Akkam turte? 最近如何？Zuìjìn rúhé?
How’s tricks? (informal)
Akkam malichi?
怎么样的招数 zěnme yàng de zhāoshù? （非正式）
What have you been up to?
Dhiyootti maal irraa jirta?
你最近都在做什么？Nǐ zuìjìn dōu zài zuò shénme?
What’s new? (informal) Wanti haaraa maaltu jira?
有什么新鲜事？Yǒu shé me xīnxiān shì?
1
What’s up? (informal) Akkam jirta?
什么事？Shénme shì?
What’s happening? (slang) Maaltu adeemsiffama jira?
发生了什么 fāshēngle shénme? (俚语)
What’s going on? (slang) Maaltu ta’a jira?
这是怎么回事 zhè shì zěnme huí shì? （俚语）
1.1.3. Greetings for various times of the day
Good morning. Akkam bulte/tan?
早上好 Zǎoshang hǎo.
Morning. Ganama 早上 Zǎoshang
Good afternoon. Akkam oltee/tan? 下午好 Xiàwǔ hǎo
Afternoon. Sa’a booda 下午 Xiàwǔ。
Good evening. Akkam dhisiftee/tan?
晚上好 Wǎnshàng hǎo！
Evening. Galgalaa 晚上 Wǎnshàng 。
How are you this bright morning?
Ganama nana akkam jirta?
这个明亮的早上你好吗？
Zhège míngliàng de zǎochén nǐ hǎo ma?
1.1.4. Greetings a person you haven’t seen in a long time
I haven’t seen you in years.
Waggootaf si hin arginee.
好多年没见过你了。
Hǎoduō nián méi jiànguò nǐle!
Long time no see! (informal)
Yeroo dheeraaf sin argine.
好久不见。
Hǎojiǔ bùjiàn! (Fēi zhèngshì)
2
I haven't seen you in an age!
Barootaf sin argine.
我好久没见过你了。
wǒ hǎojiǔ méi jiànguò nǐle!
I haven’t seen you in a month!
Ji’ootaf sin argine.
几个月没见你了
Jǐ gè yuè méi jiànle!。
1.1.5. Welcome someone who has returned
Welcome back!
Baga nagaan deebite! 欢迎回来 Huānyíng huílái!
Welcome back, stranger!
Baga nagaan deebite, Keessuma!
欢迎回来，陌生人! Huānyíng huílái, mòshēng rén!
Long time no see! Where were you?
Yeroo dheeraaf sin argine. Eessa turte?
好久不见，你在哪里？Hǎojiǔ bùjiàn! Nǐ zài nǎlǐ?
Where have you been?
Eessa deemtetta? 你去哪儿了 Nǐ qù nǎ'erle?
Where did you go?
Eessa deemte? 你去哪儿 Nǐ qù nǎ'er？
1.1.6. Expressing surprise at meeting someone
What a surprise to meet you here!
Baay’ee nama gammachisa asitti sin arguun koo.
在这里遇见你真是太惊喜了！
Zài zhèlǐ yùjiàn nǐ zhēnshi tài jīngxǐle!
Never imagine meeting you here!
Asitti sin arga jedhe hin yaadne.
想不到在这里遇见你！
3
Xiǎngbùdào zài zhèlǐ yùjiàn nǐ!
Fancy meeting you here.
Akkuman hawween sin argee
想在这里遇见你。Xiǎng zài zhèlǐ yùjiàn nǐ.
Never thought I’d see you here!
没想到会在这里见到你！
Méi xiǎngdào huì zài zhèlǐ jiàn dào nǐ!
What are you doing in this part of town?
Kutaa magaalaa kana maal hojjeetta?
你在镇上的这个地方做什么？
Nǐ zài zhèn shàng de zhège dìfāng zuò shénme?
Where’ve you been hiding?
Eessatti dhokattee turtee?
你躲到哪儿去了？Nǐ duǒ dào nǎ'er qùle?
What have you been up to?
Maal hojjechaa turtee?
你最近都在做什么？Nǐ zuìjìn dōu zài zuò shénme?
Shouldn’t you be in school?
Mana barumsa deemun qabdu turte?
你不应该在学校吗？ Nǐ bù yìng gāi zài xuéxiào ma?
Shouldn’t you be at work?
Bakka hojii ta’uun sif hin maalu turee?
你不应该在工作吗？ Nǐ bù yìng gāi zài gōngzuò ma?
Have you been keeping busy?
Hojiitti qabama turtee?
你一直在忙吗？ Nǐ yīzhí zài máng ma?
Been keeping busy?
Qabamaa turtee? 一直忙吗？ yīzhí máng ma?
1.1.7. After you have greeted someone
We seem to keep running into each other.
4
Nutti walirraa osoon kutin warra walarguudha.
我们似乎不断地相遇。
Wǒmen sìhū bùduàn de xiāngyù.
Haven’t we met before?
Nutti duran wal arginee hin beeknu?
我们以前没见过吗？
Wǒmen yǐqián méi jiànguò ma?
We have to stop meeting like this.
Akkanaan wal argu dhabuu qabna.
我们不能以这种方式见面了。
Wǒmen bùnéng yǐ zhè zhǒng fāngshì jiànmiànle.
Didn’t we meet at that party last week?
Torbaan darbee bakka paartiitti wal hin arginee?
我们不是上周在那个聚会上见过吗？
Wǒmen shàng zhōu bùshì zài nàgè jùhuì shàng jiànguò ma?
I’m sorry; I’ve forgotten your name.
Dhiifama, maqaa keen irraanfadhe.
对不起，我忘了你的名字。
Duìbùqǐ, wǒ wàngle nǐ de míngzì.
I’ve been meaning to call you.
Sif bilbiluu innuman yaada.
我一直想给你打电话。
Wǒ yīzhí xiǎng gěi nǐ dǎ diànhuà.
1.1.8. Concerning a journey or vacation
How was it? Akkam turee? 怎么样？zěnme yàng?
How did it go? Akkamin dabarsitee?
进展如何？Jìnzhǎn rúhé?
Did everything go okay? Hundii akka gaarii deeme?
一切顺利吗？Jìnzhǎn rúhé?
Did you have fun? Gaariitti bashannaante?
你玩儿的开心吗？
5
Nǐ wán de kāixīn ma?
You’ll have to tell us all about it.
Waan hundaasaa nutti himu qabda.
你必须告诉我们这一切。
Nǐ bìxū gàosù wǒmen zhè yīqiè.
Did you take any pictures?
Suuraa kastee qabdaa?
你拍过照片吗？
Nǐ pāiguò zhàopiàn ma?
Do you have pictures? Suuraa qabdaa?
你有照片吗？
Nǐ yǒu zhàopiàn ma?
Were the locals friendly?
Namoonni naannoo hiriyummaa gaarii qabuu?
当地人友善吗？
Dāngdì rén yǒushàn ma?
Were the natives friendly?
Namoonni naannoo gaariidha?
当地人友好吗？
Dāngdì rén yǒuhǎo ma?
Did you bring me anything?
Maal naaf fidee dhuftee?
你给我带来了什么？
Nǐ gěi wǒ dài láile shénme?
We missed you. Baay’ee si yaadnerra.
我们想你了。
Wǒmen xiǎng nǐ le.
We missed you around here. Nutti asitti baay’ee si yaadne.
我们在这里想念你。
Wǒmen zài zhèlǐ xiǎngniàn nǐ.
6
It just wasn’t the same without you.
Ati hin jirtu tanaan wan addaadha.
没有你就不一样了。
Méiyǒu nǐ jiù bù yīyàngle.
1.2. Small Talk ~ Haasaa gabaabaa ~ 闲聊 Xiánliáo
1.2.1. Expressing your state of health & happiness
Fine. Gaarii, dansaa, nagaa.
很好，挺好的，蛮好的。
Hěn hǎo, tǐng hǎo de, mán hǎo de。
I’m fine. Nagaa koodha.
我很好。Wǒ hěn hǎo.
I’m cool. (slang) Baay’ee nagaa koodha.
我挺好的。Wǒ tǐng hǎo de.
Keeping cool. Akka natti toleetti jira.
保持凉爽。bǎochí liángshuǎng.
Dandy. (informal) Of ga’aa, Nan kooraa.
千金之子。Qiānjīn zhīzǐ
Fine and dandy. Nagaafi kooraadha.
十全十美，非常好，好的出奇。
Shíquánshíměi, fēicháng hǎo, hǎo de chūqí。
Great.
Baay’ee dansaa, shaggaa, gaarii, mishaa
好极了。Hǎo jíle。
Couldn’t be better.
Baay’ee natti tole, Wanti kana caalu hin jiru.
再好不过了。
Zài hǎo bùguòle.
Happy as a clam. (cliché) Okay. Baay’ee gammadaa.
心情愉快。Xīnqíng yúkuài, hěn píngjìng。
All right. Tole, hayye. 好的。Hǎo de。
7
(I) can’t complain. Hin himadhuu.
（我）不能抱怨。bùnéng bàoyuàn.
No complaints. Himannaa hin qabu, barbaachisu.
没什么好抱怨的。
Méishénme hǎo bàoyuàn de.
I have nothing to complain about.
Wantan himadhuu tokkoollee hin qabu.
我没有什么可抱怨的。
Wǒ méiyǒu shé me kě bàoyuàn de.
1.2.2. Telling how you have been doing ~ positive
Keeping busy Hojiitti qabama.
保持忙碌，很忙，一直忙。
Bǎochí mánglù, hěn máng, yīzhí máng.
Been keeping myself busy.
Hojiitti qabama of taasisen.
一直忙碌。yīzhí mánglù。
Keeping out of trouble.
Rakkoorraa bilisaa. Rakkoo irra ofiin eega.
一直无问题，远离麻烦。
Yīzhí wú wèntí，Yuǎnlí máfan。
Been keeping out of trouble.
Yeroo hundaa rakkinaa irra of eegan jira.
一直在躲避麻烦。Yīzhí zài duǒbì máfan。
Been up to no good. (informal)
Yeroon dabarsee gaarii miti.
过得不好。Guò dé bù hǎo。
Been keeping my nose clean. (informal)
Qulqullinaan jiraachan jira.
保持干净。Bǎochí gānjìng。
1.2.3. Telling how you have been doing – neutral
Getting by. Dabarsaan jira. Jiraacha dhuman jira.
8
还过得去，过日子，还可以。
Hái guòdéqù; guòrìzi; hái kěyǐ
Been getting by. Innumaan jiraadha.
过得去。Guòdéqù
Getting lonely, getting old. Qofa ta’a, dullomaan jira.
变得更孤独，变得更老
Biàn dé gèng gūdú, biàn dé gèng lǎo
Fair to middling. (folksy)
Yaaraas gaariis miti. Homaan jedhu.
过得去，还算好，不好不坏的。
Guòdéqù, hái suàn hǎo, bù hǎobù huài de
So-so. (informal)
Akka akka tokkoo. Akkuma tokkoo. Humnumaan jira.
马马虎虎，勉强过得去，一般般。
Mǎmǎhǔhǔ; miǎnqiáng guòdéqù, yībānbān
Could not be better.
Kanarra gaarii hin ta’u.
好得不能再好。Hǎo dé bùnéng zài hǎo。
(Just) muddling through.
Hibboo nati ta’ee jira.
得过且过。Déguòqiěguò.
Same as always.
Akkuma yeroo hundaa.
老样子，还是老样子。Lǎo yàngzi, háishì lǎo yàngzi.
Same as usual.
Akkuma yeroo kanni.
和通常一样，平时一样。
Hé tōngcháng yīyàng, píngshí yīyàng.
1.2.4. Telling how you have been doing ~ negative
Not good. Gaarii miti, dansaa miti. 不好。Bù hǎo.
Not so good. Baa’eessa miti. 不太好。Bù tài hǎo.
9
Not too good. Baay’ee gaarii miti. 不是很好。Bùshì hěn hǎo.
None too good. Homtuu gaarii miti.
一点也不好。Yīdiǎn yě bù hǎo
Not well. Gaarii miti. 不太好。
Not very well. Baay’ee gaarii miti. 不是很好。
Not so well. Fara hin qabu, haalla gaarii hin qabu.
不太好。
Not too well. Baa’eessa miti. 不是非常好。
None too well. Wanti baay’ee gaarii hin jiru.
没有可说很好的。
Méiyǒu kě shuō hěn hǎo de.
Not so hot. ….. ho’aa miti.
….没那么热。…. méi nàme rè.
Not too hot. …. baay’ee ho’aa miti.
….. 不太热。….Bù tài rè.
None too hot. Kan baay’ee ho’e hin jiru.
没有太热的。Méiyǒu tài rè.
Not great. Baay’ee hin tolu.
不是很好。Bùshì hěn hǎo.
Not so great. Baay’ee baay’ee gaarii miti.
不是完全好。Bùshì wánquán hǎo.
None too great. Wanti gaarii ta’ee hin jiru.
没有可说太好。Méiyǒu kě shuō tài hǎo.
Crummy. (slang) Yaaraa, bada 糟糕的。Zāogāo。
Kind of crummy. (slang) Wanta yaara, bada.
有点烂。yǒudiǎn làn.
I’ve seen better days. Guyyaa gaarii ta’ee argeen jira.
我见过更好的日子。
wǒ jiànguò gèng hǎo de rìzi.
I’ve had better days. Guyyaa gaarii jiraadhen ture.
10
我有过更好的日子。
Wǒ yǒu gèng hǎo de rìzi.
1.2.5. Explaining that you have been busy
I’m busy. Hojiitti qabamen jira. 我很忙。Wǒ hěn máng.
Keeping busy. Hojiittin qabame. 一直很忙。Yīzhí hěn máng.
Keeping myself busy. Hojiittin of qaba.
让自己忙起来。Ràng zìjǐ máng qǐlái.
Been keeping myself busy.
Yeroo hundaa hojiitti qaba of taasisa.
一直让自己很忙碌
Yīzhí ràng zìjǐ hěn máng.
I’m swamped. Hojiin natti ulfaata jira, Liqimfameerra.
我被淹没了。Wǒ bèi yānmòle.
I’m snowed under. Baay’ee hojiitti qabameen jira.
我忙得不可开交。
Wǒ máng dé bùkě kāijiāo.
I don’t have time to breathe.
Yeroon itti afuura baafadhu dhabeerra.
我连喘口气的时间都没有。
Wǒ lián chuǎn kǒuqì de shíjiān dōu méiyǒu。
I don’t have time to think.
Yeroon itti yaadu illee hin qabu.
我没有时间思考。Wǒ méiyǒu shíjiān sīkǎo。
There aren’t enough hours in the day.
Sa’aatiin na ga’aa hin jiru. Yeroo ga’aa hin qabu.
一天没有足够的时间。
Yītiān méiyǒu zúgòu de shíjiān.
Not a moment to spare.
Yeroon boqonnaa tokkoo illee hin jiru.
一刻也不能闲。
11
Yīkè yě bùnéng xián.
I’ve been running. Yeroo hundaan fiiga.
我一直在奔跑。
Wǒ yīzhí zài bēnpǎo。
I’ve been running around with my head cut off. (informal)
Oliifi gadiin fiiga mataan koo narra cituuf.
我一直在跑来跑去，我的头被砍掉了。
wǒ yīzhí zài pǎo lái pǎo qù, wǒ de tóu bèi kǎn diàole
1.2.6. Inviting friends for drinks or coffee

Do you have time for coffee? Buna dhuguuf yeroo qabdaa?
你有时间和咖啡吗？Nǐ yǒu shíjiān hē kāfēi ma?
How about a cup of coffee?
Buna yoo dhugdee maal sitti fakkaata?
来杯咖啡怎么样？
Lái bēi kāfēi zěnme yàng?
Let’s go get coffee. Do you have any time?
Mee deemne buna haa dhugnu. Yeroo qabda?
我们去喝咖啡吧，你有时间吗？
Wǒmen qù hē kāfēi ba. Nǐ yǒu shíjiān ma?
Let’s go for coffee. Mee buna deemne haa dhugnu.
我们去喝咖啡吧。
Wǒmen qù hē kāfēi ba.
Let’s go for a beer. Mee biraa deemne haa dhugnu.
我们去喝啤酒吧。
Wǒmen qù hē bēi píjiǔ bā.
Let’s go for a drink. Mee deemne haa dhugnuu.
我们去喝一杯吧。
Wǒmen qù hè yībēi ba.
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1.3. Introduction
1.3.1. Introducing someone to someone else
I’d like you to meet my friend Mary.
Hiriyyaa koo Meerii wajjin akka wal bartuun barbaada.
我想让你见见我的朋友玛丽。
Wǒ xiǎng ràng nǐ jiàn jiàn wǒ de péngyǒu mǎlì.
I’d like you to meet Mary.
Meerii wajjin akka wal dubbistun barbaada.
我想让你见见玛丽。
Wǒ xiǎng ràng nǐ jiàn jiàn mǎlì.
This is my friend Mary. Kun Hiriyyaa koo Meeriidha.

这是我的朋友玛丽。
Zhè shì wǒ de péngyǒu mǎlì.
John, (this is) Mary. Mary, John.
John (kun) Meerii, Meerii kun John.
约翰，（这是）玛丽，玛丽，约翰。
Yuēhàn,(zhè shì) mǎlì. Mǎlì, yuēhàn.
Mary, have you met John? Meerii, John wal bartee?
玛丽，你见过约翰吗？
Mǎlì, nǐ jiànguò yuēhàn ma?
Mary, do you know John? Meerii, John beekta?
玛丽，你认识约翰吗？
Mǎlì, nǐ rènshí yuēhàn ma?
Mary, shake hands with John. Meerii, John wajjin wal dubbisaa.
玛丽，和约翰握手。
Mǎlì, hé yuēhàn wòshǒu.
Do you two know each other? Isiin laman wal beektu?
你们两认识吗？Nǐmen liǎng rènshí ma?
Have you two been introduced?
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Isiin laman wal bartaanni?
你们俩介绍了吗？
Haven’t you been introduced? Isiin wal hin barree?
你们没有被介绍过吗？
Nǐmen méiyǒu bèi jièshàoguò ma?
Oh, I’m sorry; how silly of me. This is Mary.
Oh， Dhiifama, nan dagadhee, kun Meeriidha.
哦，不好意思，我忘了，这是玛丽认识一下。
Ó, bù hǎoyìsi, wǒ wàngle, zhè shì mǎlì, rènshí yīxià.
Mary, John is the guy I was telling you about. You two have a lot in
common. Meerii, John naman waa’ee isa sitti himeedha. Isiin
laman waan baay’ee wallin qabdu.
玛丽，约翰就是我跟你说过的那个人。你们两个有很多共同点。
Mǎlì, yuēhàn jiùshì wǒ gēn nǐ shuōguò dì nàgè rén. Nǐmen liǎng g
è yǒu hěnduō gòngtóng diǎn.
1.3.2. When you have just been introduced to someone
Good to meet you. Sin arguun koo gaariidha.
很高兴见到你。
Hěn gāoxìng jiàn dào nǐ.
Nice to meet you. Sin barruun koo na gammachisa.
认识你很高兴。
Rènshí nǐ hěn gāoxìng.
Nice meeting you. Sin barruun koo natti tola.
How nice to meet you. (formal)
Baay’een gammada si barruu koof.
认识你真高兴。
Rènshí nǐ zhēn gāoxìng.
How very nice to meet you. (formal)
14
Baay’ee gammadaa si arguu koo.
很高兴认识你。
Hěn gāoxìng rènshí nǐ.
What a pleasure to meet you. (formal)
Si barruu koof baay’een gammada.
It’s a pleasure to have finally met you. (formal)
Dhumaa irratti si arguu koof baay’een gammada.
很高兴终于见到你。
hěn gāoxìng zhōngyú jiàn dào nǐ.
I am pleased to make your acquaintance. (formal)
Si wajjin Hiriyyaa ta’uuf baay’een gammada.
我很高兴和你做朋友。
Wǒ hěn gāoxìng hé nǐ zuò péngyǒu.
I’m happy to meet you. Si arguu koof nan gammada.
我很高兴见到你。
wǒ hěn gāoxìng jiàn dào nǐ.
I’m glad to meet you. Si barruu koof baay’een gammada.
Glad to meet you. Nan gammada si barruu koof.
Your name has been known to me for a long time. (polite)
Yeroo dheeraaf maqaa keen beeka.
久闻大名。Jiǔ wén dàmíng。
Charmed. (formal) Namatti tola. 迷住了。Mí zhùle
A pleasure. (formal) Qannoodha. 荣幸。róngxìng.
15
1.3.3. After you have been introduced to someone
I’ve been wanting to meet you for some time.
Si barruuf ergaan barbaadu egalee bubulee jira.
我想见你已经有一段时间了。
Wǒ xiǎngjiàn nǐ yǐjīng yǒu yīduàn shíjiānle.
John has told me all about you.
John waa’ee kee hundaa natti hime.
约翰已经告诉了我关于你的一切。
Yuēhàn yǐjīng gàosùle wǒ guānyú nǐ de yīqiè.
John has told me so much about you.
John waa’ee kee hedduutti natti hime jira.
约翰已经告诉了我很多关于你的事。
Yuēhàn yǐjīng gàosùle wǒ hěnduō guānyú nǐ de shì.
I’ve heard so much about you.
Waa’ee kee baay’ee dhaga’een jira.
我听说过很多关于你的事。
Wǒ tīng shuōguò hěnduō guānyú nǐ de shì.
I’ve heard so much about you I feel I know you already.
Waa’ee kee baay’ee dhaga’een jira, akkuman si beeku natti
fakkaata. 我听说过很多关于你的事，我觉得我已经认识你
了。Wǒ tīng shuōguò hěnduō guānyú nǐ de shì, wǒ juédé wǒ yǐjī
ng rènshí nǐle.
So we finally meet face to face.
Kuno dhumaarratti fuula fuula wal arginee.
于是，我们终于面对面了。
Yúshì, wǒmen zhōngyú miànduìmiànle.
We’ve exchanged e-mails; it’s nice to meet you in person.
Imeeliii wal jijjiireerraa, Qaaman si arguun koo dansadha.
我们交换了电子邮件，很高兴见到你。
Wǒmen jiāohuànle diànzǐ yóujiàn; hěn gāoxìng jiàn dào nǐ.
I’m sorry, what was your name again?
16
Dhiifama, Irraa deebin maqaan kee eenyu turee?
对不起，你又叫什么名字？
Duìbùqǐ, nǐ yòu jiào shénme míngzì?
I didn’t catch your name. I’m terrible at names.
Maqaa keen qabane, maqaa qabachuun na rakkisaa.
我没有听懂你的名字，我记不起名字。
Wǒ méiyǒu tīng dǒng nǐ de míngzì, wǒ jì bù qǐ míngzì.
1.3.4. Asking how someone is
How are you? Akkam jirta/tu?
你好吗？Nǐ hǎo ma?
How’s your family? Akkam maatiin kee?
你的家人怎么样？Nǐ de jiārén zěnme yàng?
How are you doing? Akkam jirta/tu?
你好吗？Nǐ hǎo ma?
How are you doing today? Akkamin dabarsitee har’a?
你今天过得怎么样？Nǐ jīntiānguò dé zěnme yàng?
How you doing? Akkam hojjeecha jirta?
你工作怎么样？Nǐ gōngzuò zěnme yàng?
Are you doing OK? Ati nagaatti jirta? Hundii gaariidha?
你还好吗？Nǐ hái hǎo ma?
How are you feeling? Akkam sitti dhaga’ama jira?
你感觉怎么样？Nǐ gǎnjué zěnme yàng?
How you feeling? Akkam sitti dhaga’ama jira?
你感觉如何？Nǐ gǎnjué rúhé?
Are you feeling better today? Har’a akkam sitti fooyya’e?
你今天感觉好些了吗？Nǐ jīntiān gǎnjué hǎoxiēle ma?
How have you been? Tibbana akkam sitti jira?
你最近怎么样？Nǐ zuìjìn zěnme yàng?
How you been? Tibbana akkam sitti jira?
你最近怎么样？Nǐ zuìjìn zěnme yàng?
17
1.3.5. Asking someone how things are going
How’re things? Akkam? 怎么样？Zěnme yàng?
How’re things with you? Haallonni akkamsi deemsisa jira?
你的情况如何？Nǐ de qíngkuàng rúhé?
How’re things going? Akkamiin adeemsisa jirta?
How’s with you? Akkam ati ofii?
你怎么样？Nǐ zěnme yàng?
How’s by you? (slang) Akkam itti jirta?
你还好吗？Nǐ hái hǎo ma?
How’s business? Akkam haalli daldala?
生意怎么样？shēngyì zěnme yàng?
How’s tricks? (slang) Mali akkami? Abba mala!
怎么样的招数？Zěnme yàng de zhāoshù?
How’s it shakin’? (slang) Akkam itti jirta?
怎么样？zěnme yàng?
How’s everything? Hundii gaariidha?
一切都好吗？yīqiè dōu hǎo ma?
How’s every little thing? (folksy) Wanti hundii akkami?
每件小事怎么样？Měi jiàn xiǎoshì zěnme yàng?
How’s everything going? Hundii dansaadha?
一切进行得怎么样？yīqiè jìnxíng dé zěnme yàng?
How’s it going? Akkam?
怎么样了？Zěnme yàngle?
How goes it? Akkam adeemsisa jirta?
How goes it with you? Akkam sitti jira?
你的情况如何？Nǐ de qíngkuàng rúhé?
How are you getting on? Akkamin dabarsa jirta?
你过得怎么样？Nǐguò dé zěnme yàng?
18
How are you getting along? Tibbanaa hundii gaariidha?
你最近还好吗？Nǐ zuìjìn hái hǎo ma?
How’s the world (been) treating you?
Akkam hundii gaarii ta’e sif jira?
世界（一直）如何对待你？
Shìjiè (yīzhí) rúhé duìdài nǐ?
1.4. Ending Conversation
1.4.1. Signaling the end of conversation
Oh, look at the time! Oh, Yeroo ilaali！Sa’aatii ilaali!
哦，看时间！Ó, kàn shíjiān!
It’s getting later. Barfachaa jira.
越来越晚了。Yuè lái yuè wǎnle.
Well, David, it’s really good to see you, but I really must go.
Hayye, Daawit. Si arguun koo baay’ee gaariidha. Garuu,
deemun qaba.
好，大卫，很高兴见到你，但我真的必须走了。
Hǎo ba, dà wèi, hěn gāoxìng jiàn dào nǐ, dàn wǒ zhēn de b
ìxū zǒule
It’s been fun talking to you.
Si wajjin haasa’un koo baay’ee na boharsaa.
和你聊天很有趣。Hé nǐ liáotiān hěn yǒuqù.
(It’s been) nice chatting with you.
Si wajjin dubbachuun koo baay’ee natti tola.
很高兴和你聊天。hěn gāoxìng hé nǐ liáotiān.
It’s so good to see you again.
Irra deebin si arguu koof baay’een gammada.
很高兴再次见到你。
Hěn gāoxìng zàicì jiàn dào nǐ.
We have to make plans to get together sometime.
Karoorsinee gaaf tokko wallin fanna dabarsinaa.
19
我们必须指定计划在某个时候聚在一起。
Wǒmen bìxū zhìdìng jìhuà zài mǒu gè shíhòu jù zài yīqǐ.
Let’s do lunch sometime.
Yeroo barbaadne wallin laqaana haa nyaanu.
我们找个时间吃午饭吧。
Wǒmen zhǎo gè shíjiān chī wǔfàn ba.
1.4.2. Ending telephone conversation
I really have to go now. We'll talk sometime.
Amma deemun qaba. Yeroo bira haasofna.
我现在真的得走了，我们有时间再聊。
Wǒ xiànzài zhēn de dé zǒule, wǒmen yǒu shíjiān zài liáo.
There’s someone on the other line. I must say goodbye now.
Namni bira sarara irra jira, Nagaatti sin jechuu kootti.
我还有另外一通电话要接，我现在必须说再见了。
Wǒ hái yǒu lìngwài yītòng diànhuà yào jiē, wǒ xiànzài bì
xū shuō zàijiànle.
The doorbell is ringing. I’ll call you back.
Bilbilii balbala iyyaa jira, boodan sif bilbila.
门铃响了，我会给你回电话。
Ménlíng xiǎngle. Wǒ huì gěi nǐ huí diànhuà.
Can I call you back? Something has come up.
Booda sif bilbiluu? Wanta tokkoon yaadadhe.
我稍后再给你打过去行吗？这儿有点事。
Wǒ shāo hòu zài gěi nǐ dǎ guòqù xíng ma? Zhè'er yǒudiǎn shì
I have to get back to my work. I’ll call again later.
Hojiitti deebi’un qaba. Boode sifan bilbila.
我得回去工作了，我晚点再致电。
Wǒ dé huíqù gōngzuòle. Wǒ wǎndiǎn zài zhìdiàn.
Can we continue this later? My other line is ringing.
Kana booda itti fufnu? Bilbili koo biran waama jira.
20
我们可以稍后继续吗？我还有另外一通电话要接。
Wǒmen kěyǐ shāo hòu jìxù ma? Wǒ de lìng yītiáo xiànzài xiǎng.
I have to get back to work before the boss sees me.
Osoo itti gaafatamaan na hin arginin dura gara hojiitti deebi’un
qaba.
老板看到我之前，我得回去工作。
Lǎobǎn kàn dào wǒ zhīqián, wǒ bìxū huíqù gōngzuò.
I won’t keep you any longer.
Kana booda si hin tursu.
我不会再挽留你了。
Wǒ bù huì zài wǎnliú nǐle.
I’ll let you go now. Amma akka deemtu sin dhisa.
我现在就放你走了。
Wǒ xiàn zài jiù fàng nǐ zǒu.
1.4.3. Ending Conversation abruptly
I’m going to have to run. Amma fiigun qaba.
我得跑了。Wǒ dé pǎole.
Must run. (informal) Fiigun qaba.
必须跑。Bìxū pǎo.
I’m all out of time. I’ll have to say goodbye now.
Sa’aatiin natti deema jira. Nagaattin sin jechuun qaba.
我没时间了，我现在不得不说再见了。
wǒ méiyǒu shíjiānle. Wǒ xiànzài bùdé bù shuō zàijiànle.
Look at the time. I really must go.
Yeroo ilaali. Dirqamaa deemun qaba.
看时间，我真必须走。
Kàn kàn shíjiān. Wǒ zhēn de bìxū zǒu.
It’s been great talking to you, but I have to go.
Si wajjin haasa’un koo baay’ee gaariidha garuu deemun
qaba.
21
和聊天真是太好了，但我得走了。
Hé nǐ liáotiān zhēnshi tài hǎole, dàn wǒ dé zǒule.
Wow! I’m late. Look, I’ll call you.
Wow! Natti barfatee, sifan bilbilaa.
哇！我迟到了，我给你打电话。
Wa! Wǒ chídàole. Kàn, wǒ gěi nǐ dǎ diànhuà.
Sorry, but I have to leave now.
Dhiifama, amma garuu deemun qaba.
抱歉，我现在必须离开
Bàoqiàn, wǒ xiànzài bìxū líkāi
Let’s continue this another time. I really must go.
Mee yeroo bira itti haa fufnu. Deemun qaba.
让我们下次继续，我真的必须走。
Ràng wǒmen xià cì jìxù. Wǒ zhēn de bìxū zǒu.
1.5. Goodbye
1.5.1. Simple goodbye
Good-bye. / Bye. / Bye-bye. Nagaatti. 再见 Zàijiàn.
So long. Nagaa ta’i. / Nagaatti. 就到这儿。Jiù dào zhè'er.
Ta-ta. (informal) Nagaatti. 拜拜。 Bàibài.
Farewell. Nagaa ta’i. 告别。 Gàobié.
Cheerio. Walliti deebina. 再会，珍重。Zàihuì, zhēnzhòng.
Good day. (formal) Guyyaa gaarii. / Nagaan oli!
再会。Zàihuì。
Good evening. (formal) Akkam dhisifte?
晚上好。 wǎnshàng hǎo。
Good night. Nagaan bula / buli. 晚安。wǎn'ān.
Goodbye until later. Nagaatti.
再见，直到以后。Zàijiàn, zhídào yǐhòu.
22
Goodbye until next time. Nagaa ta’I hangaa yeroo itti annutti.
再见，直到下一次。Zàijiàn, zhídào xià yīcì.
Goodbye for now. Ammaf nagaa ta’i.
那么再见了。Nàme zàijiànle
See you later. Booda sin arga.
一会儿见，回头见。Yīhuǐ'er jiàn, huítóu jiàn.
Later. (informal) Boode sin arga.
一会儿见。Yīhuǐ'er jiàn。
I’ll to catch you later. Boode sitti deebi’a.
待会儿见，不你不过说了。
Dài huì er jiàn, bù nǐ bùguò shuōle.
Catch you later. Booda si dubbisa.
回头见，待会儿见。
Huítóu jiàn, dài huì er jiàn.
I’ll talk to you soon. Yeroo dhiyootti sin dubbisa.
好了，不说了，一会儿再聊。
Hǎole, bù shuōle, yīhuǐ'er zài liáo.
Let’s get together soon. Mee yeroo yeroo bira wal argina.
我们有时间聚一下吧。Wǒmen yǒu shíjiān jù yīxià ba.
I’ll be seeing you. Si arguuffaan jira.
我会再见到你，我将见到你。
Wǒ huì zàijiàn dào nǐ, wǒ jiāng jiàn dào nǐ.
I’ll see you real soon. Dhugaa yeroo dhiyootti sin arga.
我很快见到你。Wǒ hěn kuài jiàn dào nǐ.
See you. Nagaatti. Sin argaa. 再见。Zàijiàn.
See ya. (informal) Nagaatti.
再见，回见，再见罗。Zàijiàn, huí jiàn, zàijiàn luō.
See you soon. Booda wal argina.
一会就，待会儿见，回头见。
Yī huǐ jiù, dài huì er jiàn, huítóu jiàn.
23
See you real soon. Dhiyootti sin arga.
马上见。很快与你见。Mǎshàng jiàn. Hěn kuài yǔ nǐ jiàn.
See you around. Sin arga.
回头见。Huítóu jiàn
See you in a little while. Yeroo gabaabaatti sin arga.
待会儿见。dài huì er jiàn。
See you next year. Wagga dhufu sin arga. / Bara dhufu sin arga.
明年见。Míngnián jiàn.
See you then. Egaa nagaatti
那么再见。Nàme zàijiàn.
See you tomorrow. Boor sin arga.
明天见。Míngtiān jiàn.
1.5.2. Taking leave of someone
Good running into you. Sitti bahun koo wan gaariidha.
碰到你真好，遇见你真好。
Pèng dào nǐ zhēn hǎo, yùjiàn nǐ zhēn hǎo.
Nice running into you. Si arguun koo na gammachisaa.
很高兴遇到你。Hěn gāoxìng yù dào nǐ.
Nice talking to you. Si wajjin haasa’un koo baay’ee natti tola.
很高兴和你聊天，很愉快和你聊天。
Hěn gāoxìng hé nǐ liáotiān, hěn yúkuài hé nǐ liáotiān.
Take care. Of eegadhu!
请多保重！照顾好自己。
Qǐng duō bǎozhòng! Zhàogù hǎo zìjǐ.
(It was) good to see you. Si arguu koof nan gammada.
很高兴见到你。
(It was) nice to see you. Si arguun koo baay’ee gaariidha.
很愉快遇见你。
Nice meeting you. Si arguun koo baay’ee dansaadha.
很高兴见到你。Hěn gāoxìng jiàn dào nǐ.
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It was a pleasure meeting you. (formal)
Si wajjin wal arguun baay’ee namatti tola.
遇见你真是让人开心。Yùjiàn nǐ zhēnshi ràng rén kāixīn.
It is a pleasure to have met you. (formal)
Si barruun koo baay’ee na gammachiisa.
很高兴认识你。Hěn gāoxìng rènshí nǐ.
It’s been a real pleasure. (formal)
Kun wan gammachuu hirmachuudha.
这真是一种享受。Zhè zhēnshi yī zhǒng xiǎngshòu.
1.5.3. Leaving a place
Are we ready to leave? Deemuf qophoofne jira?
我们准备好离开了吗？Wǒmen zhǔnbèi hǎo líkāile ma?
Are you about finished? Xumuruu geesse?
你快结束了吗？Nǐ kuài jiéshùle ma?
Are you ready to go? Deemuf qophoofte?
你准备好出发了吗？Nǐ zhǔnbèi hào chūfāle ma?
Ready to go? Qophoofte deemuf?
准备好出发？Zhǔnbèi hào chūfā?
Ready to roll? (slang) Qophooftee?
准备好了吗？Zhǔnbèi hǎole ma?
Are we away? (slang) Deemnu?
我们走了吗？Zhǔnbèi hǎole ma?
Let’s blow. (slang) Haa deemnu.
我么吹吧。Wǒmen chuī ba.
Let’s get out of this taco stand. (slang)
Mee bakka nyaarqa kana gad dhiisne haa deemnu.
我们离开这个玉米卷摊吧。
Wǒmen líkāi zhège yùmǐ juǎn tān ba.
Let’s blow this joint. (slang) Haa deemnu kun hin tolu.
走吧，哥们儿，真没劲儿，离开这儿。
Zǒu ba, gēmen er, zhēn méijìn er, líkāi zhè'er.
25
Let’s go while the going’s good. (cliché)
Yeroo gaarii ta’ee jiru haa deemnu.
趁热打铁，我们走吧。Chènrèdǎtiě, wǒmen zǒu ba.
Let’s head out. Aboo, Haa deemukaa!
我们出发吧。wǒmen chūfā ba.
Let’s beat a hasty retreat. (cliché)
Ariitin haa deemnu asi.
咱们急忙撤腿。Zánmen jímáng sātuǐ.
Let’s make tracks. (informal) Mee fana haa dhofnu.
让我们来追踪追踪。Ràng wǒmen lái zhuīzōng zhuīzōng.
Let’s motor. (slang) Konkolataan haa deemnu.
我们开车吧。Wǒmen kāichē ba
Let’s hit the road. (slang) Karaarra haa bunu.
我们上路吧。Wǒmen shànglù ba.
Let’s boogie. (slang) Haa deemnu.
咱们走。Zánmen zǒu.
Let’s split. (slang) Adda addaa haa bannu.
咱们分手吧。我们分开吧。
Zánmen fēnshǒu ba. Wǒmen fēnkāi ba.
Let’s make like a tree and leave. (jocular)
Akka baali mukarra kaatu haa kannu.
让我们橡树一样离开。
Ràng wǒmen xiàngshù yīyàng líkāi.
Let’s make like the wind and blow.(jocular)
Akka bubee haa bubisnu.
让我们像风一样吹吧。
Ràng wǒmen xiàng fēng yīyàng chuī ba
Exit from the right door. Bahumsi balbalaa mirgaan.
从右边门儿下。Cóng yòubiān mén er xià.
Exit from the left door. Bahumsi balbalaa bitaan.
从左边门儿下。Cóng zuǒbiān mén er xià.
26
Retreat! (slang) Haa dhisnuu.
撤退，撤回，退却，后退。
Chètuì, chèhuí, tuìquè, hòutuì.
1.5.4. When someone is leaving on a journey
Bon voyage! Karaa gaarii!
一路顺风！Yīlù shùnfēng!
Have a good trip! Deemsa gaarii.
旅行愉快！Lǚxíng yúkuài!
Have a nice flight. Balali’insaa gaarii sif haa ta’u.
旅途愉快。Lǚtú yúkuài.
Have a nice trip. Deemsa gaarii sif haa ta’u!
一帆风顺。Yīfānfēngshùn.
Have a safe trip. Imala nagaa sif haa ta’u!
一路平安。Yīlù píng'ān.
Have a safe journey. Deemsa nagaa qabadhu.
祝你、您一路平安。Zhù nǐ, nín yīlù píng'ān.
Drive carefully. Of eegannoon konkolachiisi.
开车小心点。Kāichē xiǎoxīn diǎn.
Take care of yourself. Of eegadhu!
照顾好自己。Zhàogù hǎo zìjǐ.
We’ll miss you. Si yaadna. / Isiin yaadna.
我们会想你、您的。Wǒmen huì xiǎng nǐ, nín de.
All the best. Caaraa gaarii!
祝你一切顺利。Zhù nǐ yīqiè shùnlì.
1.5.5. Making plan to keep in touch with someone
I’ll call you when I get home. Yeroon mana ga’e sifan bilbilaa.
我到家后给你打电话。Wǒ dàojiā hòu gěi nǐ dǎ diànhuà.
Call when you get there. Yeroo achii geessu bilbilii.
你到了就给我打电话。Nǐ dàole jiù gěi wǒ dǎ diànhuà.
Don’t forget to call. Bilbiluu hin dagattin.
27
别忘了打电话。Bié wàngle dǎ diànhuà.
Write me. Naf barreessi.
给我写信。Gěi wǒ xiě xìn.
Let’s write. Haa barreessinu.
我们来写吧。Wǒmen lái xiě ba.
You’ve got my e-mail address? Imeelii koo qabdaa?
你有我的电子邮件地址吗?
Nǐ yǒu wǒ de diànzǐ yóujiàn dìzhǐ ma?
Text me. Erga gabaabaa naf barreessi.
发短信给我。Fā duǎnxìn gěi wǒ.
I’m on Facebook. Fesibukii qaba.
我有脸书。Wǒ yǒu liǎn shū.
Let’s do lunch. Laaqana haa nyaannu wallin.
我们一起吃午饭吧。Wǒmen yīqǐ chī wǔfàn ba.
I’ll be in touch. Sin dubbisaa.
我会联系的。Wǒ huì liánxì de.
Let’s keep in touch. Osoo adda hin kutin wal haa dubbisnu.
我们保持联系啊。Wǒmen bǎochí liánxì a.
1.6. Agreeing
1.6.1. Simple Agreement
Yes. Eeyee 是的。Shì de.
Yeah. (informal) / Yep. (informal) Yup. (informal)
Eeyee 是的。shì de.
Right. Sirrii. 对的。duì de.
You’re right. Dhugaa jette. 你说得对。Nǐ shuō dé duì.
Right you are. Ati sirriidha. 你是对的。Nǐ shì duì de.
Right on! Sirrii. 对了。Duìle!
Right-o. Sirridha. 对哦。Duì ó.
Uh-huh. Eeyeen. 嗯。N
28
Sure. Haqa 当然啊。Dāngrán a.
Sure thing. Waan dhugaa. 当然可以。Dāngrán kěyǐ.
You got it. Sif galee. 你明白了。Nǐ míngbáile.
You bet. Haqadha. 真的，的确。Zhēn de, díquè.
Absolutely. Mamiin qabu. 绝对的。Juéduì dì.
By all means. Karaa kamiyyuu 无论如何。Wúlùn rúhé.
1.6.2. Stating your concurrence
This is true. Kun dhugaadha.
这是真的。Zhè shì zhēn de.
That’s true. Dhugaadha. 没错。Méi cuò.
You’re right. Dhugaa keedha. 你说得对。Nǐ shuō dé duì.
Ain’t that the truth? Kun dhugaa miti moo?
这不是事实吗？Zhè bùshì shìshí ma?
Ain’t it the truth? Kun haqa miti moo?
这不是真实吗？Zhè bùshì zhēnshí ma?
That’s right. Dhugaadha. 没错。Méi cuò
That’s for certain. / That’s for sure. Kun dhugaa dhuma.
这是肯定的。Zhè shì kěndìng de.
That’s for darn sure. Kun sirriidha.
那是肯定的。Nà shì kěndìng de.
That’s pretty sure. Kun baay’ee dhugaadha.
那是相当肯定，很确定。
Nà shì xiāngdāng kěndìng, hěn quèdìng
Well said. Gaarii dubbate. 说得好。Shuō dé hǎo.
I agree. Wali nan gala. 我同意。Wǒ tóngyì.
I agree with you 100 percent. Harka dhibbaa wali nan gala.
我百分之百同意你的看法。
Wǒ bǎifēnzhībǎi tóngyì nǐ de kànfǎ.
I couldn’t agree with you more. Guutummatti wali nan gala.
29
我完全同意你的意见。Wǒ wánquán tóngyì nǐ de yìjiàn.
I have no problem with that. Rakkiina hin qabu kana wajjin.
我对此没有异议。Wǒ duì cǐ méiyǒu yìyì.
We see eye to eye on this. Kana irratti yaadni keenya tokko.
我们在这一点上意见一致。
Wǒmen zài zhè yīdiǎn shàng yìjiàn yīzhì.
I couldn’t have said it better.Kana caala kan jechuu maalu hin jiru.
我说得再好不过了。Wǒ shuō dé zài hǎo bùguòle.
You took the words right out of my mouth.
Kanan jedhuu hundaa dubbatee jirta.
你把我的话都说出来了。
Nǐ bǎ wǒ dehuà dōu shuō chūláile.
I’ll drink to that! Kanaf nan dhuga.
我为此干杯。Wǒ yào wèi cǐ gānbēi.
1.6.3. Expressing acceptance

It’s fine. Homaa miti. 没事。Méishì.
I think it’s fine. Akkan yaadutti homaa miti.
我觉得没关系。Wǒ juédé méiguānxì.
It’s good enough. Kun baay’ee ga’aadha.
这已经足够了。Zhè yǐjīng zúgòule.
It’s satisfactory. Kun baay’ee qubsaadha.
这很令人满意。Zhè hěn lìng rén mǎnyì.
It’ll do. Ni hojjeettama. 会的。Huì de.
It’ll serve the purpose. Bakka ni guuta.
他会达到目的的。Tā huì dádào mùdì de.
I like it. / I love it. Jaalladhen jira. 我喜欢。Wǒ xǐhuān.
I think it’s great. Akkan yaadutti gaariidha.
我觉得很棒。Wǒ juédé hěn bàng.
30
I like the color. Bifa kana jaalladhe.
我喜欢这个颜色。Wǒ xǐhuān zhège yánsè.
I like the flavor. Dhamdhama kana jaalladhe.
我喜欢它的味道。Wǒ xǐhuān tā de wèidào.
It’s got a good rhythm. Rukkuta-sagalee bareeda qaba.
节奏很好。Jiézòu hěn hǎo.
It’s wonderful. / It’s fabulous. Baay’ee baay’ee gaariidha.
太棒了，太棒啦！Tài bàngle, tài bàng la!
It’s ideal. Yaada qabeessa.
这很理想。Zhè hěn lǐxiǎng.
It’s perfect. Kun hanqina hin qabu.
太完美了。Tài wánměile.
This is second to none.
This is perfect. Kun hanqina-maleessa.
这太完美了！
This is the ultimate. 这是终极的。
It couldn’t be better. Wanta baay’ee addaadha.
再好不过了。
Never been better. Akkas ta’ee hin beeku.
从未如此。
There’s none better. Kana oliitti hin jiru.
没有更好的了。
It doesn’t get any better than this.
Kan kana caalu argachu hin dandeenye.
没有比这更好的了。
I’ve never seen anything like it. Kan akkasi argee hin beeku.
我从未见过这样的事。
This is the cream of the crop. (cliché) Kun baay’ee addaadha.
这是最棒的。
This is the pick of the litter. (idiomatic)
Kun bakka waan xixiqqootti.
31
这是挑选垃圾的地方。
This is the best of the best. Kun gaarii keessa isaa gaariidha.
这是最好中最好的。
That suits me fine. Kun naf ta’a.
那很适合我。
That’s the ticket. (idiomatic)
这就是罚单。
That’s just what the doctor ordered. (idiomatic)
这正是医生要的。
That’s just what I needed.
这正是我需要的。
That hits the spot. (idiomatic)
这很恰当。
That fits the bill. (idiomatic) That’s it.
这很适合，就是这样。
That’s the greatest thing since sliced bread. (cliché)
这是自切片面包以来最棒的事情。
It’s in a league of its own.
这是他自己的联盟。
I give it four stars.
我给它四颗星。
I’ve hit the jackpot.
我中了头奖。
Bingo! (slang) => I did it!
中了。我做到了。
Jackpot! (slang) => It is good!
头奖=>很好。
Bull’s-eye! (slang) Bonus score! (slang)
把心！加分！
32
1.6.4. Stating that you understand
I hear you. Si dhaga’aan jira.
我听到你了。Wǒ tīng dào nǐle.
I hear you, man. Si dhaga’aan jira bar!
我听到了，兄弟。Wǒ tīng dàole, Xiōngdì.
I hear what you’re saying. Wanta jecha jirtuu dhaga’aan jira.
我听到你在说什么。Wǒ tīng dào nǐ zài shuō shénme.
I see what you’re saying. Hubadheen jira wanta jecha jirtu.
我明白你在说什么。Wǒ míngbái nǐ zài shuō shénme.
I can see what you’re saying. Nan hubadha kan jecha jirtu.
我能懂你在说什么。Wǒ néng dǒng nǐ zài shuō shénme.
I can see that. Hubadheen jira.
我理解了。Wǒ lǐjiěle.
I see what you mean. Maal akka jette hubadheerra.
我明白你的意思了。Wǒ míngbái nǐ de yìsile.
I see where you’re coming from. Eessa akka dhufte bareen jira.
我知道你从哪里来。Wǒ zhīdào nǐ cóng nǎlǐ lái.
I know. Beeka. 我知道。Wǒ zhīdào.
I know what you mean. Maal akka jette beeka.
我明白你的意思。Wǒ míngbái nǐ de yìsi.
I know what you’re talking about.
Maal akka haasa’aa jirtuu beeka.
我知道你在说什么。Wǒ zhīdào nǐ zài shuō shénme.
I understand what you’re saying.
Maal akka jechaa jirtu si hubadheen jira.
我明白你在说什么。Wǒ míngbái nǐ zài shuō shénme.
Understood. Hubaadherra. 明白了。Míngbáile.
I dig it. (slang) Naf galeerra. 我搞明白了。Wǒ gǎo míngbáile.
I can dig it. (slang) Sirriitti nan hubadhaa.
我会弄明白的。Wǒ huì nòng míngbái de.
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I got you. Sin hubadhaa. 我懂你。Wǒ dǒng nǐ.
Gotcha. Hubadhee. 明白了。Míngbái le.
(I) got it. Beeke. 知道了。Zhīdào le.
I can follow you. Haasa kee nan hubadhaa.
我能听懂你的话。Wǒ néng tīng dǒng nǐ dehuà.
Read you loud and clear.
Sirriitti si hubadheen jira.
Yaadni kee sirriitti naaf galee jira.
我能够清楚地听到你的声音。
Wǒ nénggòu qīngchǔ dì tīng dào nǐ de shēngyīn.
我清楚明白地收到你的意思了。
Wǒ qīngchǔ míngbái dì shōu dào nǐ de yìsile.
Roger. Tole. 收到啦，了解。Shōu dào la, liǎojiě.
Roger Dodger. (slang)
1.6.5. Making sure you understand
Do you know what I mean? Yaada koo hubattee?
你懂我的意思吗？Nǐ dǒng wǒ de yìsi ma?
Do you know what I’m talking about?
Waa’ee wantan haasa’aa jiru sif galee?
你知道我在说什么吗？Nǐ zhīdào wǒ zài shuō shénme ma?
Know what I mean? Sif galee yaadni koo?
明白我的意思了吗？Míngbái wǒ de yìsile ma?
Does that make any sense?
这有任何意义吗？Zhè yǒu rènhé yìyì ma?
Am I making sense? Wanti ani jedhu qubsaadha?
我说的有道理吗？Wǒ shuō dé yǒu dàolǐ ma?
Are you following me? Na hubachaa jirta?
你听清楚没有？Nǐ tīng qīngchǔ méiyǒu?
Know what I’m saying? Wantan jedhu sif galee?
知道我在说什么吗？Zhīdào wǒ zài shuō shénme ma?
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Do you know? Beekta? / Beektu?
你知道吗？Nǐ zhīdào ma?
You know? Beekte? Beektannii?
你懂吗？Nǐ dǒng ma?
Do you see what I mean? Isiniif / Sif galee yaadni koo?
你明白我的意思吗？Nǐ míngbái wǒ de yìsi ma?
See what I mean? Sif galee? / Isiniif galee?
明白了吗？Míngbáile ma?
Don’t you see? Sif hin galee?
你不明白吗？Nǐ bù míngbái ma?
Do you get the message? Yaadni koo sif galee?
明白我的意思没有？Míngbái wǒ de yìsi méiyǒu?
Do you get the picture? Sif galee?
明白我的意思没有？Míngbái wǒ de yìsi méiyǒu?
Do you get it? Sif galee?
你明白吗？Nǐ míngbái ma?
Get it? Hubattee?
明白吗？Míngbái ma?
Do you follow me? Na hordofaa jirta?
你听懂了吗？Nǐ tīng dǒngle ma?
Dig? (slang) = Do you understand? Sif galee? / Isiniif galee?
你明白吗？Nǐ míngbái ma?
Understand? Sif galee? Hubattee? 明白吗？Míngbái ma?
Do you hear what I’m saying? Wantan jedhu sif galee?
你听到我在说什么吗？Nǐ tīng dào wǒ zài shuō shénme ma?
Do you hear me? Na dhaga’aa jirta?
你听到我了吗？Nǐ tīng dào wǒle ma?
Do you agree? Waligaltee?
你同意吗？Nǐ tóngyì ma?
You’re with me, right? Na hordofaa jirta, miti?
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你是在跟着我，对吧？Nǐ shì zài gēnzhe wǒ, duì ba?
Are you with me on this? Na wajjiin jirtu kan irratti?
你能理解我的意思吗？Nǐ néng lǐjiě wǒ de yìsi ma?
Do we see eye to eye on this?
Kanarratti yaadni keenya tokkoodha?
我们对此意见一致吗？Wǒmen duì cǐ yìjiàn yīzhì ma?
1.7. Disagreeing Walii galuu dhiisu
1.7.1. Stating simple disagree or refusal
No. / Nope. Hin ta’uu / Lakki 不。Bù.
No way. Hin ta’uu. Hin danda’amu.
没门儿。不行。不能。不可能。Méimén er. Bùxíng.
Bùnéng. Bù kěnéng
Not a chance. Hin ta’uu. 不可能。Bù kěnéng。
Not! (slang) iyyoo, lakki. 不是。Bùshì!
Uh-uh.
I don’t think so. Natti hin fakkaatu.
我不这么认为。Wǒ bù zhème rènwéi.
1.7.2. Stating categorical Disagreement

That’s not true. Kun dhugaa miti.
这不是真的。Zhè bùshì zhēn de.
That’s not right. Kun sirrii miti.
这不是对的。Nà shì bùduì de.
You’ve got that wrong. Ati dogoggortee jirta.
你错了。
You’ve got it all wrong. Ati sirriitti hin jirtu.
你搞错了。Nǐ gǎo cuòle.
Wrong! Dogoggora! 错误的！Cuòwù de!
You missed the boat. (idiomatic) Carraan kun si darbite.
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你错过了机会。Nǐ cuòguòle jīhuì.
You’re missing the boat. (idiomatic) Carraan kun si darba jirti.
你还是要错过机会了。Nǐ háishì yào cuòguò jīhuìle.
Wrong on both counts. Karaa hundaan dogoggora.
都是不对的？Dōu shì bùduì de?
You’re wrong. Dogoggorte jirta. 你错了。Nǐ cuòle.
You’re dead wrong. Baay’ee dogoggora jirta.
你大错特错了。Nǐ dà cuò tè cuòle.
You’re way off base. Karaa irra badee jirta.
你太离谱了。Nǐ tài lípǔle.
1.7.3. Stating strong disagreement
I disagree completely. Ani guutumatti walii hin galuu.
我完全不同意。Wǒ wánquán bù tóngyì.
I couldn’t disagree (with you) more.
Ani walumaagalatti walii hin galuu.
我完全不同意。Wǒ wánquán bù tóngyì.
Horsefeathers! (slang) Afuuftuu.
胡说八道，梦话。Húshuō bādào, mènghuà.
Bullshit. (taboo) Afuuftuu, Sobduu.
胡说，废话。Húshuō, fèihuà.
That’s BS. (mildly vulgar) Bull. (mildly vulgar)
Kun kosiidha, kun Xuraawaadha.
那是胡扯，那是废话。Nà shì húchě，Nà shì fèihuà
Baloney. (slang) Kosii, Xuraawaa. 胡扯。Húchě。
That's a load of crap. (mildly vulgar) Kun afuuftuu.
胡说八道。Húshuō bādào.
That's a lot of bull. (mildly vulgar) Kijibduu, Sobduu.
吹牛，假话，废话，瞎话，胡说。
Chuīniú, jiǎ huà, fèihuà, xiāhuà, húshuō.
That's a lot of baloney. That’s a bunch of baloney. (slang)
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Sobni kan itti guutedha.
那是胡说八道。Nà shì húshuō bādào.
That’s a bunch of malarkey. (slang) Kun afuufedha.
那是大话。Nà shì dàhuà.
That's a lie. Kun Sobadha. 那是谎言。Nà shì huǎngyán.
That’s a big, fat lie. (informal)
Kun soba cimaadha. Soba adii.
那是一个弥天大荒。Nà shìgè mítiān dàhuǎng
You’re lying through your teeth.
Soba jirta. / Kijibaa jirta.
你在撒谎。Nǐ zài sāhuǎng.
Look me in the eye and say that.
Ija keessa na ilaali dubbaadhu.
你看着我的眼睛说出来。
Nǐ kànzhe wǒ de yǎnjīng shuō chūlái.
1.7.4. Stating your disagreement with preposition
That’s out of the question. Kun gonkumaa hin ta’u.
那是不可能的。Nà shì bùkěnéng de.
That’s unthinkable. Kun kan itti yaadamu miti.
这是想想不出的，这是不能想象的。
Zhè shì xiǎng xiǎng bù chū de, zhè shì bùnéng xiǎngxiàng de.
That’s insane. Kun maraattuummaadha.
这太疯狂了。Zhè tài fēngkuángle.
I’ll give that all the consideration it’s due.
Itti nan yaada.
我会好好考录的。Wǒ huì hǎohǎo kǎo lù de.
1.7.5. Expressing Rejection
I can’t stand it. Kana achiitti hin danda’u.
我受不了了，我无法容忍。
Wǒ shòu bùliǎole, wǒ wúfǎ róngrěn.
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I hate it. Ani garmalee jibbeen jira.
我讨厌它。Wǒ tǎoyàn tā.
I don’t care for it. Hin jaalladhu, Dhima itti hin qabu.
我不在乎，我不介意。Wǒ bùzàihū, wǒ bù jièyì.
I don’t like it. Ani hin jaalladhu.
我不喜欢它。Wǒ bù xǐhuān tā.
It’s not my style. Kun bifa ani jaalladhu miti.
这不是我喜欢的风格。Zhè bùshì wǒ xǐhuān de fēnggé.
It’s not for me. Kun anaf miti. Kun naf miti.
这不是给我的。这不是为了我。
Zhè bùshì gěi wǒ de. Zhè bùshì wèile wǒ.
It stinks. / It reeks. (informal) fokkataa.
臭死了。讨厌死了。Chòu sǐle. Tǎoyàn sǐle.
It sucks. (mildly vulgar) Waan bada ta’e. Yaaratte.
糟透了。Zāo tòule
My kid could do that. Daa’imni kooyyuu ni hojjeeta.
这一点我孩子能做到。Zhè yīdiǎn wǒ hái zǐ néng zuò dào.
It’s awful. It’s terrible. It’s hideous.It’s dreadful.
Kun balaafamaadha. Kun suukkaneessaadha.
Kun rakkisaadha. Kun hamaadha.
太可怕了。Tài kěpàle.
It’s ugly. Fokkisaadha.
很难看，令人不快的。Hěn nánkàn, lìng rén bùkuài de.
It’s hell on earth. (informal) Kun gaannama lafarratti.
这是人间地狱。Zhè shì rénjiān dìyù.
I don’t get it. Naf hin gale.
我不明白，我不懂，我没明白。
Wǒ bù míngbái, wǒ bù dǒng, wǒ méi míngbái.
1.7.6. Expressing refusal
No. / Nope. Hin ta’uu, hi’I, iyyoo, lakki. 不，不行。Bù，bùxíng.
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No, sir. Hin ta’uu, Obboo. 不，先生。Bù, xiānshēng.
No way. Hin danda’amu. 没门儿。Méimén er.
No way, José. (informal) Itti hin yaadin. Hin ta’uu.
想都别想。Xiǎng dōu bié xiǎng.
No can do. (informal) Mali hin jiru. 没办法。Méi bànfǎ.
No sirree. (folksy) Lakki, obboo.
没有，先生。Méiyǒu, xiānshēng.
No sirree, Bob. (folksy) Lakki, obboo.
没有，先生。不，先生。
Méiyǒu, xiānshēng. Bù, xiānshēng.
Sorry. Dhiifama.
对不起。抱歉。不好意思。
Duìbùqǐ. Bàoqiàn. Bù hǎoyìsi.
Nothing doing. Homaa hojjechaa hin jiru.
没事儿。Méishì er.
You’re out of luck. Ati carraa hin qabdu. Carraa kee bada.
你真倒霉。你运气不好。
Nǐ zhēn dǎoméi. Nǐ yùnqì bù hǎo.
In a pig’s eye. (idiomatic) Gonkuma hin ta’u.
糟糕之极。Zāogāo zhī jí.
绝对不可能。永不。Juéduì bù kěnéng. Yǒng bù.
When pigs fly. (idiomatic) Gaafa lukkuun fincoofte.
除非太阳西方出来。Chúfēi tàiyáng xīfāng chūlái.
When hell freezes over. (informal)
Arraba koorra qoratti buqisi. Gonkuma hin ta’u.
地狱结冰。根本不可能的事。绝不可能。
Dìyù jié bīng. Gēnběn bù kěnéng de shì. Jué bù kěnéng.
There isn’t a snowball’s chance in hell. (informal)
Carraan kubba cabbii gaannama keessatti hin jiru.
地狱里没有雪球的机会。
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Dìyù lǐ méiyǒu xuě qiú de jīhuì.
Not a chance. Walumaagalatti hin danda’amu.
根本不可能，绝对不可能。
Gēnběn bù kěnéng, juéduì bù kěnéng.
No chance. Hin danda’amu.
不可能。怎么可能。
Bù kěnéng. Zěnme kěnéng.
Not if I can help it.
Si gargaruu hin danda’u.
这我也帮不了你了。Zhè wǒ yě bāng bùliǎo nǐle.
Not likely. Akkas hin fakkaatu.
不太可能。不见得。Bù tài kěnéng. Bùjiàn dé.
Not bloody likely. (mildly vulgar)
Hin abjoottin, Kun tasaa hin ta’u.
你别做梦了。这不可能的。
Nǐ bié zuòmèngle. Zhè bù kěnéng de.
Absolutely not! Gonkuma hin ta’u. Lakki tasumaa.
绝对不，绝对不是，绝对不行。
Juéduì bù, juéduì bùshì, juéduì bùxíng.
It will be a cold day in hell before I do that. (informal)
Gaafan akkas godhe sangaattu dhala.
那是绝不可能发生的事或情况。
Nà shì jué bù kěnéng fāshēng de shì huò qíngkuàng.
Only in your dreams. Abjuu keettin qofa.
只有在你的梦里。Zhǐyǒu zài nǐ de mèng lǐ.
Dream on！ Caaldhisi abjoodhu！
做梦去吧！做梦吧！Zuòmèng qù ba! Zuòmèng ba!
Save your breath. Caaldhiste hin haasa’in.
省口气吧！别废话了！不要白费力气。
Shěng kǒuqì ba! Bié fèihuàle！Bùyào báifèi lìqì.
Save it! Yeroo kee hin fiixin. Humna keen fiixin.
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省省吧！不要白费力气了。
Shěng shěng ba！Bùyào báifèi lìqìle.
You’re barking up the wrong tree. (idiomatic)
Dogoggortee jirta.
你找错人了。你错怪了人。
Nǐ zhǎo cuò rénle. Nǐ cuòguàile rén.
Over my dead body. (idiomatic) Yoon du’e malee.
除非我死了。Chúfēi wǒ sǐle.
Forget it. Dhiisiibaa! 算了吧。Suànle ba.
If you think that, you’ve got another think coming.
Yoo akkas yaada ta’ee dogoggorte jirta. Sirriitti yaadi.
如果你认为时这样，那你就错了，再好好想想。Rúguǒ nǐ
rènwéi shì zhèyàng, nà nǐ jiù cuòle, zài hǎohǎo xiǎng xiǎng.
Not in a million years.
Bara kumaatamatti iyyuu hin ta’u.
不再是一百万年。绝对不会。
Bù zài shì yībǎi wàn nián. Juéduì bù huì.
Not for a million dollars.
Qarshii kumatamaf iyyuu hin ta’u.
一百万美元也不行，绝不行。
Yībǎi wàn měiyuán yě bùxíng, jué bùxíng.
You couldn’t pay me to do it.
Naf kaffaltuu illee hin ta’u.
给我钱我也不，你付不起我钱。
Nǐ gěi wǒ qián wǒ yě bù, nǐ fù bù qǐ wǒ qián.
Not in your wildest dreams.
Abjuu keen iyyuu hin ta’u.
你在做梦也不可能。Nǐ zài zuòmèng yě bù kěnéng.
You wish. Akka dansaatti yaada. 想得美。Xiǎng dé měi.
I’ll be damned first. (mildly vulgar)
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Busheessuun qaba.
这太离谱了。Zhè tài lípǔle.
You have no idea what are you talking about.
Ati maal akka haasa’a jirtu hin beektu.
你根本不知道你在说什么。
Nǐ gēnběn bù zhīdào nǐ zài shuō shénme.
Damned if I will. (mildly vulgar)
Nan du’a malee….
绝不（做）……，打死我也不（做）….。
Jué bù (zuò)……, dǎ sǐ wǒ yě bù (zuò)…..
Like hell. (mildly vulgar)
Nan du’a malee
拼命地，要命，见鬼。
Pīnmìng de, yàomìng, jiànguǐ.
I’ll see you in hell first. (mildly vulgar)
Gaannamatti wal arginna.
地狱见，与你地狱相见，我在地狱等你。
Dìyù jiàn, yǔ nǐ dìyù xiāng jiàn, wǒ zài dìyù děng nǐ.
1.7.7. Stating that someone is wrong
What are you talking about? Maal haasa’a jirta?
你在说什么？Nǐ zài shuō shénme?
You don’t know what you’re talking about.
Maal akka haasa’a jirtu ati hin beektu.
你不知道你自己在说什么。
Nǐ bù zhīdào nǐ zìjǐ zài shuō shénme.
You don’t have a leg to stand on.
Humna isa hin qabdu.
你没有这个大胆。Nǐ méiyǒu zhège dàdǎn.
You haven’t got a leg to stand on.
Hin qabdu hoo eessa fidarree?
你没有这个资格。Nǐ méiyǒu zhège zīgé.
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You don’t know the first thing about it.
Waan tokkoo illee hin beektu.
你一点也不知道。Nǐ yīdiǎn yě bù zhīdào.
You’re really stretching the truth.
Ati dhugaa ukkukkubsa jirta.
你真的在夸大事实。Nǐ zhēn de zài kuādà shìshí.
You’re way off base. Dogoggora cimaadha. Irra kaatte jirta.
大错特错。Dà cuò tè cuò.
You can lay that notion to rest.
Yaada kana lafa ka’uu ni dandeessa.
你可以放下这个想法。Nǐ kěyǐ fàngxià zhège xiǎngfǎ.
1.7.8. Arguing about the facts
You’ve got it all wrong.
Dogoggorte jirta.
你完全搞错了。Nǐ wánquán gǎo cuòle.
You’ve got the facts wrong.
Dhugaa irra gortee jirta.
你把事实搞错了。Nǐ bǎ shìshí gǎo cuòle
You’ve got your facts wrong.
Dhugaarra dogoggorte jirta.
你把事实弄错了。Nǐ bǎ shìshí nòng cuòle.
You haven’t got the facts.
Ati amma iyyuu dhugaa hin arganne.
你还是没有掌握事实。Nǐ háishì méiyǒu zhǎngwò shìshí.
You haven’t got the facts right.
Ati dhugaa hin arganne.
你没有掌握正确的事实。
Nǐ méiyǒu zhǎngwò zhèngquè de shìshí.
I don’t think you’ve got your facts straight.
Akkan yaadutti ati dhugaa adda baafte hin hubanee.
我认为你没有把事实弄清楚。
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Wǒ rènwéi nǐ méiyǒu bǎ shìshí nòng qīngchǔ.
Don’t speak until you’ve got your facts straight.
Hanga dhugaa addan baftuutti hin haasa’in.
在你弄清楚之前不要说话。
Zài nǐ nòng qīng shìshí zhīqián bùyào shuōhuà.
Next time get the facts straight. (informal)
Yeroo biraf dursa dhugaa barrii.
下次把事实弄清楚。Xià cì bǎ shìshí nòng qīngchǔ.
Next time get the facts first. (informal)
Yeroo bira dura dhugaa adda baasi.
下次先弄清楚事实。Xià cì xiān nòng qīngchǔ shìshí.
Don’t jump to conclusions.
Gara murteetti hin ariifatiin.
不要妄下结论。Bùyào wàng xià jiélùn.
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Chapter – 2
2. Conversational Encounters
2.1.Focusing Attention
2.1.1. Getting someone’s attention
Pardon me. (formal) Dhiifama 对不起。Duìbùqǐ.
Excuse me. Dhiifama 打扰一下。Dǎrǎo yīxià.
Hey! (informal) Hey 嘿 Hēi!
Hey, you! (informal) Hey, abbee! 嘿，兄弟！Hēi, xiōngdì!
Yo! (slang) Yoyyaa!
Hi there, buddy! Obbolee! 你好呀，哥们儿！
2.1.2. Getting someone to listen to you
Look here. (informal) Dhagageeffadhuu
听着，听我说！Tīngzhe, tīng wǒ shuō!
Listen here. (informal) Dhaga’ii
听着吧！Tīngzhe ba!
Listen up. (informal) Sirriitti dhageeffadhuu.
注意听，听好了！Zhùyì tīng, tīng hǎole!
Get a load of this. (informal) Kana dhageeffadhuu.
你听听这个！Nǐ tīng tīng zhège！
Now hear this! (informal) Amma kana dhageeffadhuu.
现在听听这个。Xiànzài tīng tīng zhège.
Hear me out. Na dhageeffadhuu xumuri.
听我说完！Tīng wǒ shuō wán
Are you ready for this? (informal) Dhaga’uuf qophooftee?
想听着？Xiǎng tīngzhe?
Listen. (informal) Caqasii 倾听着！Qīngtīngzhe!
Are you listening to me? Na dhageeffachaa jirta?
你在听我说话吗？Nǐ zài tīng wǒ shuōhuà ma?
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Are you paying attention? Qalbeeffachaa jirta?
你注意到了吗？Nǐ zhùyì dàole ma?
I’m talking to you. Sitti dubbachaan jira.
我在对说话呀！Wǒ zài duì nǐ shuō ya?
Do you hear me? Na dhaga’aa jirta?
你听见了吗？Nǐ tīngjiànle ma?
2.1.3. Directing attention to an object
Look at this. Kana ilaali. 看看这个。Kàn kàn zhège.
Take a look at this. Mee kana ilaali. 看一下。Kàn yīxià.
Get a load of this. Ilaali mee kana.
快来看看这个。Kuài lái kàn kàn zhège.
Take a gander at that. (informal) I’ilaali. 看看吧。Kànkànba.
Feast your eyes on this. Ilaali quufii.
大饱眼福。Dàbǎoyǎnfú.
Look what we have here. Wanta qabnu ilaali.
看看我们这里有什么。Kàn kàn wǒmen zhè li yǒu shé me.
Lookie here. (informal) As ilaali. 看这里。Kàn zhèlǐ.
Lookit. (slang) ilaali. 看好。Kànhǎo.
Can you eyeball this (for a minute)? Takka kana ilaali mee?
你能看一下这个吗？Nǐ néng kàn yīxià zhège ma?
Can you believe your eyes? Ija kee ni amantaa?
你能相信你的眼睛吗？Nǐ néng xiāngxìn nǐ de yǎnjīng ma?
I don’t believe my eyes. Ija koo hin amanuu.
我不相信我的眼睛。Wǒ bù xiāngxìn wǒ de yǎnjīng.
Do my eyes deceive me? Wanti ija koo dura hundii dhugaadha?
我眼前的一切是真的吗？
Wǒ yǎnqián de yīqiè shì zhēn de ma?
That’s a sight for sore eyes.
这是一个让眼睛酸痛的景象。
Zhè shì yīgè ràng yǎnjīng suāntòng de jǐngxiàng.
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2.1.4. Confirming that you are paying attention
I hear you. Si dhaga’aan jira. 我听你说。Wǒ tīng nǐ shuō.
I heard you. Si dhag’een jira. 我听见了。Wǒ tīngjiàn le.
I’m listening. Dhageeffachaan jira. 我在听呢。Wǒ zài tīng ne.
I’m still here. Asumaan jira. Si hordoffaan jira.
我还在这儿呢。Wǒ hái zài zhè'er ne.
I’m all ears. Si caqasaan jira.
洗耳恭听，则耳聆听。
Xǐ'ěrgōngtīng, zé ěr língtīng.
2.2. Launching the Conversation
2.2.1. Starting an informal conversation
Guess what? Maaltu akka ta’e tilmaami.
你猜怎么着？Nǐ cāi zěnmezhe?
Have you heard the latest? Waan dhiheenya dhageesse?
你听说最新消息了吗？Nǐ tīng shuō zuìxīn xiāoxīle ma?
Have you heard? Dhageesse?
你听说了吗？Nǐ tīng shuōle ma?
Did you hear what happened? Wanta ta’ee dhageesse moo?
你听说发生什么事了吗？
Nǐ tīng shuō fāshēng shénme shìle ma?
Did you hear the news? Oduu dhageesse?
你听到消息了吗？Nǐ tīng dào xiāoxīle ma?
Did you get the scoop? (informal) Oduu dhiheenya dhageesse?
你听过最近消息了吗？Nǐ tīngguò zuìjìn xiāoxīle ma?
You’ll never guess what I heard.
Wantan dhaga’ee ati taasuma tilmaamu hin dandeessu.
你永远猜不到我听到了什么。
Nǐ yǒngyuǎn cāi bù dào wǒ tīng dàole shénme.
You’ll never guess what I read online.
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Ati gonkuma tilmaamu hin dandeessu wantan sududaarra
dubbise.
你永远猜不到我在网上看到了什么。
Nǐ yǒngyuǎn cāi bù dào wǒ zài wǎngshàng kàn dàole shénme.
Guess what I just saw online.
Wantan sududaa irra argee tilmaami.
猜猜我刚才在网上看到了什么。
Cāi cāi wǒ gāngcái zài wǎngshàng kàn dàole shénme.
Guess what I just found out.
Wantan argee tilmaami.
猜猜我刚刚发现了什么。
Cāi cāi wǒ gānggāng fāxiànle shénme.
You won’t believe this. Ati kana hin amantuu.
你不会相信的。Nǐ bù huì xiāngxìn de.
Get this. (informal) Kana dhaga’ii
听好这个。Tīng hǎo zhège.
Dig this. Kana hubadhuu. 明白此事。Míngbái cǐ shì.
2.2.2. Inviting someone to talk
You got a minute? Yeroo qabda?
你有时间吗？Nǐ yǒu shíjiān ma?
Got a minute? Sa’aatii qabda?
有时间吗？Yǒu shíjiān ma?
I need to talk. Si wajjin haasa’un barbaada.
我想谈谈。Wǒ xiǎng tán tán.
Can we talk? Haasa’uu ni dandeenya?
能一块儿谈谈吗？Néng yīkuài er tán tán ma?
Can I talk to you? Si wajjin dubbachuu nan danda’aa?
我能和你谈谈吗？Wǒ néng hé nǐ tán tán ma?
May I have a word with you? (formal)
Mee si wajjin dubbachuu nan danda’aa?
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我能和你说句话吗？Wǒ néng hé nǐ shuō jù huà ma?
Let’s talk. Mee haa haasofnu.
我们一起来说吧。Wǒmen yī qǐlái shuō ba.
Let’s chew the fat. (slang) Mee wajjin haa haasofnu.
咱们一起聊天吧。Zánmen yīqǐ liáotiān ba.
Let’s shoot the breeze. (slang) Mee haa dudubbanuu.
一起聊天吧。Yīqǐ liáotiān ba.
2.2.3. Coming to the point of the matter
May I be frank? Iftoominaan dubbadhuu?
我可以坦率的说嘛？Wǒ kěyǐ tǎnshuài de shuō ma?
Let me be perfectly clear. Mee ifaatti haa dubbadhuu.
那我说清楚一点。Nà wǒ shuō qīngchǔ yīdiǎn.
Make no bones about it. (idiomatic) Mamii keessa hin galchiin.
对此毫不掩饰，毫不犹豫。
Duì cǐ háo bù yǎnshì, háo bù yóuyù.
Read my lips. (informal) = Pay close attention to what I am saying.
Sirriitti na dhaga’i.
注意听我说，仔细听。Zhùyì tīng wǒ shuō, zǐxì tīng.
(To make a) long story short. (cliché)
Dheeraa gabaabse sitti haa himu.
长话短说。Chánghuàduǎnshuō.
Let’s call a spade a spade. (cliché)
Wanta fedhaa kee haasa’ii.
我们直言不讳吧，有什么就说什么。
Wǒmen zhíyán bùhuì ba, yǒu shé me jiù shuō shénme.
Let me spell it out for you.
Sifan ibsa.
我给你解释一下吧。Wǒ gěi nǐ jiěshì yīxià ba!
Here’s the bottom line.
Kun tuqaa barbaachisadha.
这就是最关键。Zhè jiùshì zuì guānjiàn.
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2.2.4. Requesting that the speaker get to the point
What’s your point? Maal jechuu barbaade?
你想说什么？Nǐ xiǎng shuō shénme?
你到底想说什么？Nǐ dàodǐ xiǎng shuō shénme?
你的意思是？Nǐ de yìsi shì?
What’s the point?
Dhimma maalii?
什么是重点？Shénme shì zhòngdiǎn?
重点是什么？Zhòngdiǎn shì shénme?
What’s the upshot?
Bu’aan isa maalii?
结果如何？Jiéguǒ rúhé?
结果是什么？Jiéguǒ shì shénme?
The upshot = The result
What are you trying to say?
Ati maal jechuu barbaada jirta?
你要说什么？Nǐ yào shuō shénme?
What are you trying to tell me?
Maal natti himu barbaade?
你想告诉我什么？Nǐ xiǎng gàosù wǒ shénme?
Get to the point.
Kallattiin dubbaadhu.
开门见山吧。有话直说吧。说正事吧！
Kāiménjiànshān ba. Yǒu huà zhí shuō ba. Shuō zhèngshì ba!
2.2.5. Various Conversational Phrase
If I may. = If I may interrupt.; If I may add some information.
Yoon akkas …. 如果可以的话，Rúguǒ kěyǐ dehuà,
Pardon my French. = Pardon my use of vulgar words.
Jechoota koo salphoof dhiifama.
不好意思，我讲了粗口。Duìbùqǐ, wǒ jiǎngle cūkǒu
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No pun intended. = I intended to make no joke or play on words.
Qoosaaf miti. Taphaf miti. Bachoof miti.
不打算开玩笑。Bù dǎsuàn kāiwánxiào.
If you know what I mean. = I assume you understand what I mean.
Waan jedhu beekte
如果你明白我的意思。Rúguǒ nǐ míngbái wǒ de yìsi.
Know what I mean? (informal) = Do you understand what I am
saying? Wantan jechuu barbaadu bartee?
知道我的意思了吗？Zhīdào wǒ de yìsile ma?
You know what I’m saying? = Do you understand what I am
saying?
Wantan jedhu beekte?
你知道我在说什么吗？
Nǐ zhīdào wǒ zài shuō shénme ma?
You know? = Do you understand what I am saying?
Beekta? 你知道吗？Nǐ zhīdào ma?
Right? = Is that not so?
Miti? 对吧？Duì ba?
OK? = Is that not so?
Tole? 好吗？好嘛？Hǎo ma? Hǎo ma?
2.2.6. Encouraging someone to speak plainly
Enough already. (informal) Ga’ee jira.
已经足够了！不要了！Yǐjīng zúgòule! Bùyàole!
Out with it! (informal) = Say it!; Speak out!
Dubbadhuu baasii.
说出来呗！Shuō chūlái bei!
Spare (me) nothing. Maal akka jechuu barbaade dubbadhuu.
想说什么，直接说吧！Xiǎng shuō shénme, zhíjiē shuō ba!
Lay it on the line. (informal)
Tooran dubbadhuu. Ifatti dubadhuu.
说实话，把话说清楚。Shuō shíhuà, bǎ huàshuō qīngchǔ.
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Tell it to me like a man. (informal)

Akka dhiiratti dubbadhuu.
像男人一样告诉我。Xiàng nánrén yīyàng gàosù wǒ.
Give it to me straight. (informal) straight = unadorned
Kallattiin natti himi.
直接告诉我。Zhíjiē gàosù wǒ.
Give it to me in plain English.
plain English = simple and direct terms
Ingliffa salphaa ta’een natti himi.
用简单英语来说吧。
Don’t beat around the bush. (idiomatic) Stop beating around the
bush. (idiomatic)
Naanna’a hin oliin, kallatiin dubbadhu.
别拐弯抹角，有话直说。
Bié guǎiwānmòjiǎo, yǒu huà zhí shuō.
Stop circumventing the issue.
Dhimma irraa dedeebi’aa hin kaasin.
别再回避这个问题了。Bié zài huíbì zhège wèntíle
Put your cards on the table. (idiomatic)
Kan dubbatuu yoo jiraate kallatiin dubbadhu.
有什么话直说。把话挑明。
Yǒu shé me huà zhí shuō. Bǎ huà tiǎo míng.
What does that mean in English? (informal)
Ingliffa sirriin maal jechuudha?
这在英语里什么意思呢？
Zhè zài yīngyǔ lǐ shénme yìsi ne?
Cut the crap. (mildly vulgar) crap = dung = needless talk
Dhiisii wanta gatii hin qabne.
少说废话！
Shǎo shuō fèihuà.
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2.2.7. Noting digreessions in conversation
That’s beside the point. Kun dhimma alaa.
这不是重点。Zhè bùshì zhòngdiǎn.
That’s beside the question. Kun gaaffi wajjin wal qabattu.
这与问题无关。Zhè yǔ wèntí wúguān.
That’s not an issue.
Kun gaaffi miti. Kun rakkisaa miti.
这不是问题。 Zhè bùshì wèntí.
That’s not the issue.
Kun rakkoo miti. Kun bakka rakkoon jiru miti.
这不是问题所在的。这不是问题所在的。
That’s irrelevant. Kun barbaachisaa miti.
这无关紧要。Zhè wúguān jǐnyào.
That has nothing to do with it.
Kun kanan walliti hidhaata hin qabu.
这与此无关。Zhè yǔ cǐ wúguān.
That has nothing to do with what I’m talking about.
Kun wanta haasa’aa jiru wajjin hidhaata hin qabu.
这和我说的无关。Zhè hé wǒ shuō de wúguān.
That’s another story. Inni dubbii biraadha.
那是另外一个故事。Nà shì lìngwài yīgè gùshì.
That’s a whole ‘nother story. (folksy) That’s a different ball of wax.
(idiomatic) ball of wax = thing; matter
Sun guutumatti waan biraadha.
那是完全另一回事。
That’s a different kettle of fish. (idiomatic)
kettle of fish = thing; matter
Kun waan garagaraadha.
那是完全两回事。Nà shì wánquán liǎnghuíshì.
That’s another can of worms. (idiomatic)
can of worms = set of problems
Inni rakkoo biraadha.
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那又是另一个问题。Nà yòu shì lìng yīgè wèntí.
That’s a horse of a different color. (idiomatic)
a horse of a different color = a different kind of problem altogether
Kun waan adda addaadha.
这是完全另一回事。Zhè shì wánquán lìng yī huí shì.
You’re off on a tangent.
Mata duree alaa battee jirta.
你扯到题外了。Nǐ chě dào tí wàile.
You’re getting off the subject.
Dhimma alaa bahaa jirta.
你把话题扯远了。Nǐ bǎ huàtí chě yuǎnle.
As you were saying . . . Akkuma ati…. Jecha jirtutti.
就像你….说的。Jiù xiàng nǐ…shuō de.
Get back to the point . Gara tuqaatti deebi’i.
别东拉西扯了，说正事吧。
Bié dōng lā xī chěle, shuō zhèngshì ba.
But I digress. (formal) Mata duree alaa baheen jira.
我跑题了！Wǒ pǎotíle!
2.2.8. Repeating what you have said
Let me repeat myself. Meetrra deebi’e sitti haa dubbadhu.
让我重复一遍。Ràng wǒ chóngfù yībiàn.
Allow me to repeat myself. (formal)
请允许我重复一遍。Qǐng yǔnxǔ wǒ chóngfù yībiàn.
As I’ve said . . . ……kkuman dubbadhe
按我说的，Àn wǒ shuō de,
As I am fond of saying . . . ….. akkuman dubbachuu jaalladhu.
按我喜欢说，Àn wǒ xǐhuān shuō,
To reiterate . . . Irra deebi’in 反复地说 Fǎnfù dì shuō
To repeat . . . Irra deebi’in dubbachuu
再三讲，重说，重复说
Zàisān jiǎng, zhòng shuō, chóngfù shuō
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How many times do I have to tell you?
Si’a meeqa sitti haa himu?
我要告诉你多少次？Wǒ yào gàosù nǐ duōshǎo cì?
If I’ve told you once, I’ve told you a thousand times. (cliché)
Yoon si’a tokko isitti hime, si’a kumaa tokko ta’erraa.
如果我告诉你一次，我已经告诉你一千次了。
Rúguǒ wǒ gàosù nǐ yīcì, wǒ yǐjīng gàosù nǐ yīqiān cìle.
If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a million times. (cliché)
Yoon si’a tokko dubbadhee si’a miliyona tokko ta’erraa.
如果我说过一次，我已经说过一百万次了。
Rúguǒ wǒ shuōguò yīcì, wǒ yǐjīng shuōguò yībǎi wàn cìle.
2.2.9. When someone is being repetitious
So you said. Akkas jette. 是你这么说的。Shì nǐ zhème shuō de.
Stop beating a dead horse. => beating a dead horse = continuing
to argue a point that has been won
Wanta bu’aa hin qabne dhiisi.
别白费口舌。Bié báifèi kǒushé.
Stop harping on that subject.
harping on = dwelling on; talking about
Dhimma kana irra debi’u dhiisi.
别再唠叨那个话题了。
Bié zài láo dāo nàgè huàtíle.
You sound like a broken record. (idiomatic)
broken record = a grooved LP album with a scratch that makes the
same track repeat endlessly
Sagaleen kee akka waraabii cicitee irra dedeebi’a hin oliin.
你别重复同样的话题了。
Nǐ bié chóngfù tóngyàng de huàtíle.
Must you belabor the point?
Hima ijoo dubbatee ibsu qabda?
你必须把重点说清楚吗？
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Nǐ bìxū bǎ zhòngdiǎn shuō qīngchǔ ma?
All right, already. Tole. 好的。Hǎo de.
We get the point, already. Nuf galee jira.
我们已经明白了。Wǒmen yǐjīng míngbáile.
We heard you, already. dhageenyee jirra.
我们已经听到了。Wǒmen yǐjīng tīng dàole.
2.2.10. Agreeing with speaker
So it seems. kana fakkaata.
好像像就是这样。Hǎoxiàng xiàng jiùshì zhèyàng.
So it would seem. or So it would appear.
Kanaaf kana fakkaata.
看起来是这样的。Kàn qǐlái shì zhèyàng de.
As it were. Akkuma kanan dura.
原来如此。实际上可以这么说。
Yuánlái rúcǐ. Shíjì shang kěyǐ zhème shuō.
So to speak. Akka jechuun ni danda’ama.
可以这么说。
kěyǐ zhème shuō.
In a manner of speaking.
Tuqaa adda addaarra yeroo dubbanuu.
从某种意义上说。Cóng mǒu zhǒng yìyì shàng shuō.
2.2.11. Answer to “How did you find out?”
I heard it through the grapevine.
the grapevine = a chain of rumors
Jette jetten dhaga’e.
我是听小道消息说的。
Wǒ shì tīng xiǎodào xiāoxī shuō de.
A little bird told me. (cliché) => I have my sources.
Qilleensattu natti hime.
是小鸟告诉我的。Shì xiǎo niǎo gàosù wǒ de.
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I got it straight from the horse’s mouth. (idiomatic)
from the horse’s mouth =from the source
直接来自马的嘴巴。Zhíjiē láizì mǎ de zuǐbā.
这消息来自可靠的来源。
It’s common knowledge. Beekumsa walii galatti. Hundaa beeka.
众所周知。Zhòngsuǒzhōuzhī
这是大家都知道的事。Zhè shì dàjiā dōu zhīdào de shì.
We live in a fishbowl. (informal) = We are completely on display.
Bakka hundii beeku jiraanna.
我们住在所有人知道的地方。
Wǒmen zhù zài suǒyǒu rén zhīdào dì dìfāng.
We are openly visible to everyone.
Nutti hundatti mul’anna.
我们对每个人都是公开可见。
Wǒmen duì měi gèrén dōu shì gōngkāi kějiàn.
Word travels fast. (cliché) News travels fast. (cliché) Bad news
travels fast. (cliché)
Oduun balle qaba.
消息传得很快。Xiāoxī chuán dé hěn kuài.
好事不出门，坏事传千里。
Hǎoshì bù chūmén, huàishì chuán qiānlǐ.
None of your business. (informal) Just never (you) mind.
Kun dhimma kee miti.
不关你的事。Bù guān nǐ de shì.
We have our ways (of finding these things out). (jocular)
Karaa ittin argannu qabna.
我们自己有办法找到这些东西。
Wǒmen zìjǐ yǒu bànfǎ zhǎodào zhèxiē dōngxī.
I’m not one to kiss and tell. (cliché)
to kiss and tell = to do something secret and tell everyone about it
Na dhungachuunan dubbii hima miti.
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我不是一个可以亲吻和倾诉的人。
Wǒ bùshì yīgè kěyǐ qīnwěn hé qīngsù de rén.
2.3. Making Friends
2.3.1. Expressing Friends
We’re very close. Nutti hedduu walitti siqna.
我们很亲密。Wǒmen hěn qīnmì.
We’re the closest of friends.
Nutti hiriyaa baay’ee walitti siqnudha.
我们是最亲密的朋友。Wǒmen shì zuì qīnmì de péngyǒu.
We’re the best of friends. / We’re best friends.
Nutti hiriyaa baay’ee gaariidha.
我们是最好的朋友。Wǒmen shì zuì hǎo de péngyǒu.
We’re pretty tight.
Nutti baay’ee walitti siqnaa.
我们关系很紧。Wǒmen guānxì hěn jǐn.
They’re bosom buddies.
Isaan hiriyaa baay’ee walitti siqaandha.
他们是知心朋友。Tāmen shì zhīxīn péngyǒu.
She’s my best friend.
Isiin hiriyaa koo baay’ee gaariidha.
她是我最好的朋友。Tā shì wǒ zuì hǎo de péngyǒu.
She’s my closest friend.
Isheen hiriyaa koon baay’ee itti siquudha.
她是我最亲密的朋友。Tā shì wǒ zuì qīnmì de péngyǒu.
She’s a dear friend.
Isheen hiriyaa jaallatamtudha.
他是我亲近的朋友。Tā shì wǒ qīnjìn de péngyǒu.
She’s like a sister to me.
Isheen akka obboleettii koottiti.
她就像我的妹妹。Tā jiù xiàng wǒ de mèimei.
He’s like the brother I never had.
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Inni akka obboleesa ani hin qabneetti.
他就像我从未有过的兄弟。
Tā jiù xiàng wǒ cóng wèi yǒuguò de xiōngdì.
We’re like brothers.
Nutti akka obbolaatti.
我们就像兄弟一样。Wǒmen jiù xiàng xiōngdì yīyàng.
2.3.2. Commenting on the uniqueness of someone
He’s one of a kind. Inni addaadha.
他是独一无二的。Tā shì dúyīwú'èr de.
What a character! Amala akkamiidha!
什么性格啊！Shénme xìnggé a!
2.3.3. Commenting on personal similarities
We’re two of a kind. Nutti gosa tokko keessa lama.
我们是同类中两个。Wǒmen shì tónglèi zhōng liǎng gè.
They’re two of a kind. Isaan gosa tokko keessa lama.
他们是同类中两个。Tāmen shì tónglèi zhōng de liǎng gè.
We’re cut from the same cloth.
我们是一个模子里刻出来的。
Wǒmen shì yīgè múzi lǐ kè chūlái de.
We’re made from the same mold.
他们是同一个模子做出来的。
Tāmen shì tóng yīgè múzi zuò chūlái de.
We’re birds of a feather. (cliché)
Nutti yaadni keenya tokkoodha.
我们是志趣相投。Wǒmen shì zhìqù xiāngtóu.
We're like two peas in a pod.
Nutti wal fakkaana.
我们长得一模一样。Wǒmen zhǎng dé yīmúyīyàng.
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2.3.4. Expressions used to make friends at a bar or café
May I join you? Isiniitti dabalamuu nan danda’aa?
我可以加入你（们）吗？Wǒ kěyǐ jiārù nǐ (men) ma?
Is this stool taken?
Teessumni kun qabamaadha?
这个凳子有人吗？Zhège dèngzǐ yǒurén zuò ma?
Is this seat taken?
Taa’umsi kun qabamaadha?
这个座位有人吗？Zhège zuòwèi yǒurén ma?
Do you care if I join you?
Yoon sitti dabalamee maal sitti fakkaata?
你介意我加入你吗？Nǐ jièyì wǒ jiārù nǐ ma?
Care if I join you?
Si wajjin taa’u maal jetta?
介意我加入你吗？Jièyì wǒ jiārù nǐ ma?
Do you mind if I join you?
Yoon sitti dabalamee maal sitti fakkaata?
你介意我加入吗？Nǐ jièyì wǒ jiārù ma?
Mind if I join you?
Maal sitti fakkaata yoon sitti dabalamee?
Care to join us?
Yoon nutti dabalamtee maal sitti fakkaata?
Can I buy you a drink?
Dhugaatti sif bituu?
Could I buy you a drink?
Dhugaatti sif bituu nan danda’aa?
Could I get you something to drink?
Wanta dhugduu sif dhiyeessu nan danda’aa?
What are you drinking?
Maal dhugaa jirta?
Do you know who does this song? does => sings
Sirba kana eenyuu akka sirbu ni beekta?
Let’s play pool. => pool = billiards
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Pullii haa taphannuu.
2.3.5. Inviting Someone to dance
Care to dance?
Shubbisuu ni fedhaa qabda?
介意跳舞吗？Jièyì tiàowǔ ma?
Would you like to dance?
Shubbisuu ni barbaada?
你想跳舞吗？Nǐ xiǎng tiàowǔ ma?
You want to dance? (informal)
Shibbisuu barbaada?
你想跳舞吗？Nǐ xiǎng tiàowǔ ma?
Could I have the next dance?
Shibbisaa itti aanuu shibbisuu nan danda’aa?
我可以跳下一支舞吗？Wǒ kěyǐ tiào xià yī zhī wǔ ma?
May I have the next dance?
Itti aansun shubbisuu nan danda’aa?
我能跳下一支舞吗？Nǐ néng tiào xià yī zhī wǔ ma?
Will you come and join the dance?
Nutti dabalamtee shubbisuu ni barbaada?
你要来一起跳舞吗？Nǐ yào lái yīqǐ tiàowǔ ma?
2.3.6. Approaching the opposite sex
That’s a pretty outfit. (male to a female)
Uffatni kee baay’ee sirra bareeda!
你穿那套衣服真漂亮！
Nǐ chuān nà tào yīfú zhēn piàoliang!
That’s a pretty dress. (male to a female)
Uffatni kun baay’ee bareeda.
那套裙子很漂亮。Nà tiáo qúnzi hěn piàoliang
What’s shaking? (slang) shaking = happening
Maaltu ta’aa jira?
发生了什么事？Fāshēngle shénme shì?
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Don’t I know you from somewhere?
Ani bakka ta’eetti sin beeku?
我是不是在什么地方认识你？
Wǒ shì bùshì zài shénme dìfāng rènshí nǐ?
Didn’t we go to high school together?
Nutti mana barumsaa sadarkaa 2ffaa waliin hin barannee?
我不是一起上高中的吗？
Wǒ bùshì yīqǐ shàng gāozhōng de ma?
Haven’t I seen you here before?
Ani kanan dura asitti si argee hin beeku?
我以前没在这儿见过你吗？
Wǒ yǐqián méi zài zhè'er jiànguò nǐ ma?
Do you come here often?
Yeroo hedduu as ni dhufta?
你经常来这里吗？Nǐ jīngcháng lái zhèlǐ ma?
What’s a nice girl like you doing in a place like this? (male to
female, cliché)
Durbii bareedun akka kee bakke kana maal hojjeetti?
像你这样的好女孩在这样地方干什么？
Xiàng nǐ zhèyàng de hǎo nǚhái zài zhèyàng dì dìfāng gànshénme
Do you have a smoke? / Do you have a cigarette?
=> a smoke = a cigarette
Sigaaraa qabate jirta?
你有烟吗？Nǐ yǒu yān ma?
Do you have a light?
a light = a match or cigarette lighter
Layiterii qabate jirta?
你有打火机吗？Nǐ yǒu dǎhuǒjī ma?
Would you like to go somewhere quieter?
Bakka kana caalatti calissaa ta’ee deemu barbaada?
你想去更安静的地方吗？
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Nǐ xiǎng qù gèng ānjìng dì dìfāng ma?
Are you going my way?
Karaa koorran deemu barbaada?
你要走我的路吗？Nǐ yào zǒu wǒ de lù ma?
Going my way? (cliché)
Karaa koo deemta?
走我的路吗？Zǒu wǒ de lù ma？走一起吗？Zǒu yīqǐ ma?
Could I give you a lift? a lift = a ride
Tola si fuudhuu / geessuu?
我可以送你一程吗？Wǒ kěyǐ sòng nǐ yī chéng ma?
Need a lift?
Akkan si geessuu barbaada?
需要搭便车吗？Xūyào dābiàn chē ma?
Where have you been keeping yourself?
Hanga yoonnatti eessa turtee?
你一直待在哪里？Nǐ yīzhí dài zài nǎlǐ?
Where have you been all my life? (cliché)
Jireenya koo guutuu ati eessa turte?
你这辈子都去哪儿了？Nǐ zhè bèizi dōu qù nǎ'erle?
2.3.7. Asking someone for a date
Are you free Saturday evening? / Are you free Saturday night?
Sanbata xiqqaa galgala boqonnaa qabda?
你周六晚上有空吗？Nǐ zhōu liù wǎnshàng yǒu kòng ma?
Are you busy on the 15th?
Guyyaa gaaffa 15 hojiitti qabamta?
你 15 号忙吗？Nǐ 15 hào máng ma?
What are you up to this weekend?
Torbee boqonnaa kana maal hojjeetta?
你这周末打算做什么呢？
Nǐ zhè zhōumò dǎsuàn zuò shénme ne
What are you doing next weekend?
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Torbee dhufu maal hojjeetta?
你下周末打算做什么呢？
Nǐ xià zhōumò dǎsuàn zuò shénme ne?
Would you like to go to dinner?
Irbaata deemte nyaachu ni barbaada?
你想去吃晚饭吗？Nǐ xiǎng qù chī wǎnfàn ma?
Would you like to go out to dinner with me?
Ana wajjin deemte irbaata ni nyaachu ni barbaada?
你愿意和我一起去出去晚饭吗？
Nǐ yuànyì hé wǒ yīqǐ qù chūqù wǎnfàn ma?
I was wondering if you’d like to go out.
Yoo bakke deeme ni barbaada ta’ee jedheen yaada.
我想知道你是否愿意出去？
Wǒ xiǎng zhīdào nǐ shìfǒu yuànyì chūqù?
I was wondering if you’d like to see a movie.
Yoo fiilmii ilaalu deemu ni barbaada ta’ee jedheen yaada.
我想知道你是否想看电影。
Wǒ xiǎng zhīdào nǐ shìfǒu xiǎng kàn diànyǐng.
If you’re not doing anything, would you like to go to a party with
me?
Yoo hojii hin qabdu ta’ee, na wajjin gara paartii deemu ni
barbaada?
如果你没事的话，你愿意和我一起去晚会吗？
Rúguǒ nǐ méishì dehuà, nǐ yuànyì hé wǒ yīqǐ qù wǎnhuì ma?
If you don’t have other plans, would you like to go dancing?
Yoo karoora bira hin qabdu ta’ee, shubbisaa deemu ni
barbaada?
如果你没有别的安排的话，你愿意去跳舞吗？
Rúguǒ nǐ méiyǒu bié de ānpái dehuà, nǐ yuànyì qù tiàowǔ ma?
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2.3.8. Turning someone down
I’m not interested. Ani fedhii hin qabu.
我不感兴趣。Wǒ bùgǎn xìngqù.
I’m seeing someone else.
Nama bira beellamen jira.
我在和别人约会。Wǒ zài hé biérén yuēhuì.
I have other plans.
Karoora bira qabadheen jira.
我另有打算。我还有其它计划。我已有了别的安排。
Wǒ lìng yǒu dǎsuàn. Wǒ hái yǒu qítā jìhuà. Wǒ yǐ yǒule bi
é de ānpái.
I’ve got something going on.
Ani dhimman qaba. 我有事。Wǒ yǒushì.
Something suddenly came up.
Yaadni tokko akka tasa natti dhufe.
我突然发现了一些事。Wǒ túrán xiǎngqǐle yīxiē shìqíng.
I have to wash my hair.
Mataa koo dhiiqaachun qaba.
我得洗头发了。Wǒ dé xǐ tóu fǎ le.
My calendar is full.
Kalanderiin koo guutuudha.
我的日历已满了。Wǒ de rìlì yǐ mǎn le.
You’re not my type.
Ati kan akka koo miti.
你不是我喜欢的那种。Nǐ bùshì wǒ xǐhuān dì nà zhǒng.
Not, if you were the last man on earth. (rude)
Lakki, maaf ati nama tokkicha addunyarratti hafu hin ta’in.
如果你是地球上最后一个男人，就不会了。
Rúguǒ nǐ shì dìqiú shàng zuìhòu yīgè nánrén, jiù bù huìle.
You must be joking. (rude)
Ati qoosa jirta.
66
你一定是在开玩笑。Nǐ yīdìng shì zài kāiwánxiào.
I don’t feel up to it.
Fedhiisaa hin qabu.
我没兴趣。Wǒ méi xìngqù.
I have a headache.
Mataan na dhukkuba jira.
我头疼。Wǒ tóuténg.
2.3.9. Bringing a conversation to an end
Let’s call it a day. Mee guyyaa itti haa waamnu.
今天到此为止。Jīntiān dào cǐ wéizhǐ.
Let’s call it a night. Mee galgalaa bira itti haa qabnu.
我们就到此为止吧。Wǒmen jiù dào cǐ wéizhǐ ba.
Let’s call it quits. Haa ga’uu baa.
我们算了吧。Wǒmen suànle ba.
Let’s quit (and leave). Mee asumatti haa xumuru.
我们不干了，走吧。Wǒmen bù gān le, zǒu ba.
Let’s get out of here. Mee as keessa haa bannu.
我们离开这儿吧。Wǒmen líkāi zhè'er ba.
Let’s get going. / Let’s go. Haa deemnu.
我们走吧。Wǒmen zǒu ba.
We should be on our way. Karaarra jiraachu qabna ture.
我们应该上路了。Wǒmen yīnggāi shànglùle.
Let’s bid our farewell. (formal) / Let’s say our goodbyes. (formal)
Mee nagaatti haa jennu. Nagaatti haa jennu.
我们道别吧、我们告别吧。
Wǒmen dàobié ba, wǒmen gàobié ba.
2.4. Complex Matters
2.4.1. Expressing support for someone
I’ll stand by you. Ani si biran dhaabbadhaa. Ani sin gargaraa.
我会支持你的。Wǒ huì zhīchí nǐ de.
67
I’m standing behind you.
Ani si boodan jira. Ani sin gargaraa.
我站在你身后。Wǒ zhàn zài nǐ shēnhòu.
I am 100 percent behind you.
Ani guutummatti si duuban jira.
我百分之百支持你。Wǒ bǎifēnzhībǎi zhīchí nǐ.
I’m with you. Ani si wajjiniin jira. Ani sin deggaraa.
我支持你。Wǒ zhīchí nǐ.
I’m on your side. / I’ve got your back. (informal) / You’ve got my
support. / You’ve got my backing.
Ani sin deggaraa. 我支持你。Wǒ zhīchí nǐ.
You’ve got my vote. Filannoon koo kan keetti.
我投你一票。Wǒ tóu nǐ yī piào.
You can count on me.
包在我身上。Bāo zài wǒ shēnshang.
You can lean on me.
你可以依靠我。Nǐ kěyǐ yīkào wǒ.
You can trust me. Na amanii.
你可以相信我。Nǐ kěyǐ xiāngxìn wǒ.
You can put your trust in me. Anan na amanuu ni dandeessa.
你可以信任我。Nǐ kěyǐ xìnrèn wǒ.
You can put your faith in me.
Amantaa kee narratti gatu ni dandeessa.
你完全可以相信我。Nǐ wánquán kěyǐ xiāngxìn wǒ.
2.4.2. Offering helps to someone
If there’s anything I can do to help, please let me know.
Yoo wanti ani hojjedhe si gargaruu jiraate, natti himi.
如果有什么我能帮忙的，请告诉我。
Rúguǒ yǒu shé me wǒ néng bāngmáng de, qǐng gàosù wǒ.
Let me know if there’s anything I can do.
Na beeksisi wanta ani si gargaruu danda’uu kamiyyuu yoo jiraate.
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如果有什么我能做的，请告诉我。
Rúguǒ yǒu shé me wǒ néng zuò de, qǐng gàosù wǒ.
I’m here if you need me.
Yoo na barbaade asin jira.
如果你需要我，我就在这里。
Rúguǒ nǐ xūyào wǒ, wǒ jiù zài zhèlǐ.
I’m here for you.
我就为你在这里。Wǒ jiù wèi nǐ zài zhèlǐ.
If you need me, call.
Yoo na barbaade, bilbilii!
你如果需要我，就打电话。
Nǐ rúguǒ xūyào wǒ, jiù dǎ diànhuà.
I’ll always be there for you.
Yeroo hundumaa sif jira.
我会一直在你身边。Wǒ huì yīzhí zài nǐ shēnbiān.
I’ll take the rap. (slang) the rap = the blame
Ani sif himanaa nan fuudhadha.
我会接受惩罚。Wǒ huì jiēshòu chéngfá.
2.4.3. Expressing trust in someone
I have faith in you. Amantii sirran qaba.
我对你有信心。Wǒ duì nǐ yǒu xìnxīn.
I have the utmost faith in you. Amantaa guddaan sirra qaba.
我对你有最大的信心。Wǒ duì nǐ yǒu zuìdà de xìnxīn.
I have complete faith in you. Amantaa guutuun sirra qaba.
我完全相信你。Wǒ wánquán xiāngxìn nǐ.
I trust you completely.
我完全信任你。Wǒ wánquán xìnrèn nǐ.
I trust you implicitly. Guutumatti sin amana.
我无缺信任你。Wǒ wúquē xìnrèn nǐ.
I have faith in you. Amantiin sirra qaba.
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I have confidence in you. Ofiitti amanamumaa sirran qaba.
2.4.4. Expressing encouragement
Go on; you can do it! Itti fufi. Hojjechu ni dandeessa.
继续！你能行的。Jìxù; nǐ néng xíng de!
Just one more. Tokko qofa itti dabali.
再来一次。Zàilái yīcì.
Just a little harder. Xiqqumma jabaadhu.
再用力一点。Zài yònglì yīdiǎn.
Hang in there. Achumaatti jabaadhu.
坚持住。Jiānchí zhù.
Stick with it. / Stay at it. Jabaadhu itti fufi.
坚持下去。Jiānchí xiàqù.
Go for it. Jabaadhu itti deemi.
去争取吧。Qù zhēngqǔ ba.
Give it a try. / Give it a shot. => a shot = a try. Jabaadhu yaali.
试试吧！试试看！试一试！
Shì shì ba! Shì shìkàn! Shì yī shì!
Give it your best shot. / Give it your best. Yaali kee cimaa gaagessi.
尽力而为。Jìnlì ér wéi.
Keep at it. Jabaadhu itti fufi. 坚持下去。Jiānchí xiàqù.
Keep your nose to the grindstone. (idiomatic) = Keep bent over
your work. = Keep working hard.
Mudhii kee hidhadhuu jabaadhu.
埋头苦干。专心工作继续努力。
Máitóu kǔ gàn. Zhuānxīn gōngzuò jìxù nǔlì.
Hang in there. (informal) Hang tough. (slang)
Jabaadhu dhiiro! Jabaadhu qaxalee.
坚持住。Jiānchí zhù.
Stick it out. (informal) Jabaadhu cimi.
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坚持到底。Jiānchí dàodǐ.
2.4.5. Encouraging someone to try something
Have a go at it. a go = a try Take a shot at it. (informal) a shot =
a try Take a stab at it. (informal) a stab = a try Take a crack
at it. (informal) a crack = a try Have a crack at it.
Take a whack at it. (informal) a whack = a try
Yaali ilaali. 试试看！Shì shìkàn!
Come on. (informal) Jabaadhu. 加油！Jiāyóu!
It won’t hurt you to try it. Yoo yaalte sin midhuu.
试试看，对你没有坏处。
Shì shìkàn, duì nǐ méiyǒu huàichu.
Everybody’s doing it. Namni hundii hojjecha jira.
每个人都在这么做。Měi gèrén dōu zài zhème zuò.
Everyone else is doing it. Namni biran hundii hojjecha jira.
其他人都在这么做。
It’s all the rage.
the rage = the current fad Kun hundii amma ho’aa kan jiruudha.
这都是目前流行的时尚。
Zhè dōu shì mùqián liúxíng de shíshàng.
Try your luck. Carraa kee yaali.
试试你的运气。Shì shì nǐ de yùnqì.
See what you can do. Ilaali maal hojjechu akka dandeessu.
看看你能做什么。Kàn kàn nǐ néng zuò shénme.
Nothing ventured, nothing gained. (cliché) / No pain no gain.
Go on. Itti fufi. 继续吧！Jìxù ba.
Get going. Jabaadhu hojjedhu. 开始做吧。Kāishǐ zuò ba.
Get going already. Jalqabdee jirta.
已经开始了。Yǐjīng kāishǐle.
Get moving. Jabaadhu deemi. Jabaadhu hojjedhu.
动起来吧。Dòng qǐlái ba.
No pain, no gain. (cliché) Kan facaasan haamaattu.
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一分耕耘，一份收获。Yī fèn gēngyún, yī fèn shōuhuò.
Get a move on. (informal) Get cracking. (slang)
Jabaadhu deemi. Jabaadhu hojjedhu.
继续前进。Jìxù qiánjìn.
Get on the stick. (slang) Jabaadhu itti cimi.
赶快，开始工作。Gǎnkuài, kāishǐ gōngzuò.
Get the lead out. (slang)
快出去。Kuài chūqù.
Get off your ass. (mildly vulgar) Ba’i asitti!
滚开。 Gǔn kāi.
2.4.6. Encouraging someone to stop stalling and do something
Let’s see some action. (informal) Mee gochaa ta’u haa ilaalu.
我们看看一些行动。Wǒmen kàn kàn yīxiē xíngdòng.
It’s now or never. Amma yookiis yoomiyyuu.
要么现在，要么永远。Yàome xiànzài, yàome yǒngyuǎn.
Knock yourself out. (idiomatic) = Try really hard. Work as hard as
you can. Ofii kee jabaadhu hojjedhu.
尽可能努力工作。Jǐn kěnéng nǔlì gōngzuò.
Go for broke. (informal) = Risk everything.
Balaa hin sodaattin.
孤注一掷。Gūzhùyīzhì.
I expect to see some results soon.
Bu’aa yeroo dhiyootti akkan argatu nan yaada.
我希望很快能看到一些结果。
Wǒ xīwàng hěn kuài néng kàn dào yīxiē jiéguǒ.
Are you just going to stand there all day?
Guyyaa guutuu achi dhabaachu barbaada?
你就整天站在那里吗？Nǐ jiù zhěng tiān zhàn zài nàlǐ ma?
Are you just going to sit there?
Achumma taa’uuf deemta?
你还要去走在那里吗？Nǐ hái yào qù zuò zài nàlǐ ma?
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You’re letting the world pass you by.
你让世界从你身边溜走了
Nǐ ràng shìjiè cóng nǐ shēnbiān liū zǒule.
2.4.7. Expressing dissatisfaction with someone’s effort
That won't do. Kun hin ta’u. 那不行。Nà bùxíng.
That won't do it. Hin danda’amu.
那是不行的。Nà shì bùxíng de.
That doesn’t cut it. (idiomatic) to cut it = to do what is needed
Kun waan hojjetamu qabu hin raawachisu.
这做不了。Zhè zuò bùliǎo.
That doesn’t cut the mustard. (idiomatic) to cut the mustard = to
measure up to expectations
Kun waan yaadame hojjechuu hin danda’u.
这不符合要求。Zhè bù fúhé yāoqiú.
That doesn’t make the grade. to make the grade = to qualify
Kun ga’umsaa hin qabu.
这是达不到标准。这是做得不够好。
Zhè shì dá bù dào biāozhǔn. Zhè shì zuò dé bùgòu hǎo.
Is that it? Akkasii? 是这样吗？Shì zhèyàng ma?
Is that all? Kanummaa? 就这些吗？Jiù zhèxiē ma?
You call that finished? Xumuree jechuu keedha?
你说完了？Nǐ shuō wánle?
2.4.8. Asking someone to wait
Wait. Eeguu 等
Wait a moment. / Wait a minute. / Wait a sec(ond). / Wait one
moment. Wait one minute. / Wait one sec(ond).
Xiqqoo obsii. / Xiqqoo eegii. / Xiqqoo turii.
等一下，稍等一下，等一会儿。
Děng yīxià, shāo děng yīxià, děng yīhuǐ'er.
Wait it out. Eegii baa. 等等吧。Děng děng ba.
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Wait your turn. Dabaree kee eegadhu.
轮你再说。Lún nǐ zàishuō.
Just a moment. / Just one moment 请稍等，
Just a minute. / Just a sec(ond). Just one minute. / Just one
sec(ond). Seekondii tokko eegi. Daaqiqa tokkoo eegi.
等一下，等一分钟。等一秒。
Děng yīxià, děng yī fēnzhōng. Děng yī miǎo.
Hold your horses. (idiomatic) = Wait a bit. Hin ariifattin.
别急。稍安毋躁。
Bié jí. Shāo ān wú zào.
Keep your pants on. (informal) = Wait a bit. / Keep your shirt on.
(informal) = Wait a bit. Obsii hin sardamiin.
别急，等等。Bié jí, děng děng.
2.4.9. Encouraging someone to be patient and take things slowly
Take things as they come. / Take it as it comes.
Wanta tokko akka dhufeen fuudhadhu.
既来之则安之，随遇而安，对一切事情处之泰然。
Jì lái zhī zé ānzhī; suíyù'ér'ān, ān yú xiànzhuàng; duì yīqi
è shìqíng chǔzhītàirán
Take it one day at a time. Wan tokkoof guyyummaa tokkoo.
日子一天天度过；只要你每天都踏出一步；某天的某个时
刻它就会实现。Rìzi yī tiāntiān dùguò; zhǐyào nǐ měitiān dū tà
chū yībù; mǒu tiān de mǒu gè shíkè tā jiù huì shíxiàn.
Take things one day at a time.
Wan tokko guyyaa tokkoo hojjedhu.
做一天和尚，撞一天钟。
Zuò yītiān héshàng zhuàng yītiān zhōng
Time will tell. (cliché)
Yeroo wanta ta’uu sitti hima.
时间会证明一切。Shíjiān huì zhèngmíng yīqiè.
We will know more in time. Wanta yeroon fiduu fulduratti beekna.
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我们将及时了解更多。
Wǒmen jiāng jíshí liǎojiě gèng duō.
Rome wasn’t built in a day. (cliché) Big projects require a lot of
time. Roomaan guyyaa tokkootti hin ijaaramne.
罗马不是一天建成的。Luómǎ bùshì yītiān jiànchéng de.
罗马并非一日可建成。Luómǎ bìngfēi yī rì kě jiànchéng.
罗马非朝夕建成。Luómǎ fēi zhāoxì jiànchéng.
冰冻三尺，非一日之寒。Bīngdòng sān chǐ, fēi yī rì zhī hán.
修炼成仙，非一日之功。Xiūliàn chéng xiān, fēi yī rì zhī gōng.
A watched pot never boils. (cliché) = Paying constant attention to
something you are waiting for will make the wait seem endless.
Obsaattuu aannan goroomsa dhuga. Obsaa qabadhu.
忙易出错。Máng yì chūcuò
心急吃不了热豆腐。xīnjí chī bùliǎo rè dòufu
心急锅不开。Xīnjí guō bù kāi
心急水不沸。xīnjí shuǐ bù fèi
心急水不开。xīn jí shuǐ bù kāi
Good things come to him who waits. (cliché)
Wanti gaarii kan warra obsan eegutti.
好事属于愿意等待的人。
Hǎoshì shǔyú yuànyì děngdài de rén.
One step at a time，One day at a time.
Si’aa tokkootti tarkaanfi tokko, guyyaa tokkootti sa’aatii tokko.
一步一步来，日子一天一天度过。
Yībù yībù lái, rìzi yītiān yītiān dùguò.
Good things come to those who wait. (cliché)
Obsaan aannan goroomsa dhuga.
美好的事物总是来到等待的人身边。
Měihǎo de shìwù zǒng shì lái dào děngdài de rén shēnbiān
机会是留给准备的人。jīhuì shì liú gěi zhǔnbèi de rén.
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Patience is a virtue. (cliché)
Obsaan eegun carraa gaarii nama badhasaa.
耐心是一种美德。Nàixīn shì yī zhǒng měidé.
All in good time. Wantii hundii yeroo isaatti gaariidha.
Yeroon ammas ni jira.
别急还有时间。Bié jí hái yǒu shíjiān.
Everything in its time. Wantii hundii yeroo isaatti.
物各有时。Wù gè yǒushí
There’s a time for everything.
Wanta hundaaf yeroon jira.
做事要适时。Zuòshì yào shìshí.
It will work out in the end.
Dhumaarratti ni raawwata.
事情最终都会解决的。Shìqíng zuìzhōng dūhuì jiějué de.
Everything will come together.
Wantii hundii gaariif ta’aa.
一切都会好起来的。Yīqiè dūhuì hǎo qǐlái de
In the long run, everything will be fine. (informal)
Yeroo dheeraa keessatti wantii hundii gaariidha.
日久一切都会好起来的。Rì jiǔ yīqiè dūhuì hǎo qǐlái de.
I am confident it will all work out.
Wantii hundii gaarii ta’a jedheen amana.
我相信一切都好起来的。
Wǒ xiāngxìn yīqiè dōu hǎo qǐlái de.
It ain’t over till it’s over. (informal)
Hanga xumura ga’uutti hin xumuramne.
直到结束才结束。Zhídào jiéshù cái jiéshù.
It ain’t over till the fat lady sings. (cliché) = The opera is not over
until the overweight opera singer has done her solo. = The event
will not conclude until everything that was planned to happen has
happened. Xumurii haa ga’uu haa xumuramuu.
不见棺材不掉泪。Bùjiàn guāncai bù diào lèi
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2.4.10. Encouraging someone to prudent – Cliché’s
Don’t jump the gun. => to jump the gun = to start a race before the
starting gun is fired = to do something too early
Hin ariifattin. 别轻举妄动。Bié qīngjǔwàngdòng
不要仓促行事。Bùyào cāngcù xíngshì
Don’t go off half-cocked. => half-cocked = ill-prepared
Qophii gaarii ta’ee taasisi.
不要半途而废。Bùyào bàntú'érfèi.
Don’t go chomping at the bit. => chomp = to bite (as with an eager
horse) Ariifatan horii gata.
迫不及待开始工作。pòbùjídài kāishǐ gōngzuò
Don’t put the cart before the horse.
Dursa wanta bu’uura qophaa’i.
不要本末倒置。Bùyào běnmòdàozhì.
Don’t count your chickens before they hatch. => Don’t base your
plans on something that hasn’t been developed yet.
Ariifate wan tokkootti hin gammadin.
不要高兴得太早。不要过早乐观。
Bùyào gāoxìng dé tài zǎo. Bùyàoguò zǎo lèguān.
Don’t cross that bridge till you come to it. => We will deal with
that when the time comes.
Wanta tokko hanga bira geessutti itti hin ariifattin.
船到桥头自然直。Chuán dào qiáotóu zìrán zhí.
人未到桥头别想过桥事。
Rén wèi dào qiáotóu bié xiǎngguò qiáo shì
We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it.
Kan ganna ganna raawwannaa.
车到山前必有路，船到桥头自然直。
Don’t get ahead of yourself.
Ofii kee dabrsittee ol gubaa of hin ka’iin.
不要超越自己。Bùyào chāoyuè zìjǐ.
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2.4.11. Giving advise to someone whose life too busy
You can’t please everybody. (cliché) You can’t be all things to all
people. (cliché) You’ve got your fingers in too many pies. (idiomatic)
You’ve got your irons in too many fires. (idiomatic) You’re burning
the candle at both ends. (cliché)
Nama hundaa gammachisuu hin dandeessu.
你无法讨每个人喜欢。Nǐ wúfǎ tǎo měi gèrén xǐhuān
You’re taking too many things on. / You’re taking on too much.
Wantoota hedduu bachaa jirta.
你承担的事情太多了。Nǐ chéngdān de shìqíng tài duōle.
You’re doing too much.
Ati baay’ee hojjecha jirta.
你做得太多了。Nǐ zuò dé tài duōle.
You’re trying to do too much.
Wantii ati hojjechu barbaadu baay’atee jira.
你想做的太多了。Nǐ xiǎng zuò de tài duōle.
You’re overcommitted.
Ati humna ol itti of kennaa jira.
你太过分了。Nǐ tài guòfènle.
You’re overdoing it.
Humna ol hojjecha jirta.
你做得太过分了。Nǐ zuò dé tài guòfènle.
You’re carrying the world on your shoulders.
Hin dhiphattin, dachee si malee ni naannofti.
别太操心了，你的地球照样转。
Bié tài cāoxīnle, méiyǒu nǐ dìqiú zhàoyàng zhuǎn
You need to set your priorities.
Wanta dursuu qabduuf dursa keenni.
你需要确定你的优先事项。
Nǐ xūyào quèdìng nǐ de yōuxiān shìxiàng.
2.4.12. Giving instruction to someone you have lent something to
Take care of it. Eegganoon itti fayyaadami.
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当心用它。Dāngxīn yòng tā.
Take good care of it. Kunuunsa gaarii taasisiif.
好好使用它。 Hǎohǎo shǐyòng tā.
I’m trusting you to take good care of it.
Akka ati sirriitti itti fayyadaamtu sin amana.
我相信你会好好使用它。
Wǒ xiāngxìn nǐ huì hǎohǎo shǐyòng tā.
Keep an eye on it. Ija kee irran fageessin.
密切注视它。Mìqiè zhùshì tā.
Guard it with your life. Lubbuu keen eegi.
用你的生命守护它。Yòng nǐ de shēngmìng shǒuhù tā.
Don’t let it out of your sight. Ija kee dura akka hin dhibamne.
不要让它离开你的视线。
Bùyào ràng tā líkāi nǐ de shìxiàn.
I want this back. Kana booda akka naaf deebistun barbaada.
我想要这个回来。Wǒ xiǎng yào zhège huílái.
I want it back in one piece. => in one piece = unbroken; unharmed
Osoo hin cabbiin akka naaf deebi’un barbaada.
我想把它整件回来。Wǒ xiǎng bǎ tā zhěng jiàn huílái.
Bring it back in one piece. Tokko qofaan akka naaf deebistu.
把它整块拿带来。Bǎ tā zhěng kuài dài huílái.
2.4.13. Introducing a secret
Just between you and me . . . Kun anumafi si gidduutti.
就在你和我之间的事。Jiù zài nǐ hé wǒ zhī jiān de shì.
Just between you, me, and the lamppost . . .
Kun ana, sifi utubaa kana gidduutti qofa.
就在你我和灯柱之间的事。
Jiù zài nǐ wǒ hé dēng zhù zhī jiān de shì.
This is between you, me, and the bedpost.
Ana, sifi siree kana gidduutti qofa.
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就在你我和床住之间的事。
Jiù zài nǐ wǒ hé chuáng zhù zhī jiān de shì.
I’m telling you this in confidence.
Kana akka dhoksaatti sitti himan jira.
我私下告诉你这件事。Wǒ sīxià gàosù nǐ zhè jiàn shì.
I’m telling you this in strict confidence.
Kana iccittii akka maleen sitti himan jira.
我绝对保密地告诉你这件事。
Wǒ juéduì bǎomì de gàosù nǐ zhè jiàn shì.
I’m telling you this in the strictest confidence.
Kana iccittii cimaan sitti himan jira.
我是严格保密地告诉你这件事。
Wǒ shì yángé bǎomì de gàosù nǐ zhè jiàn shì.
Can you keep a secret?
Iccittii eeguu ni dandeessa?
你能保守秘密吗？Nǐ néng bǎoshǒu mìmì ma?
Don’t repeat this, but . . .
Kana irra hin deebi’in, garuu…
不要重复这个，但是…. Bùyào chóngfù zhège, dànshì....
Don’t let this get around, but . . .
Kun akka hin facaanne, garuu….
别让这件是传开，但是…
Bié ràng zhè jiàn shì chuán kāi, dànshì…
Confidentially . . .
Iccittiidha…. 保密，秘密地… Bǎomì, mìmì de…
2.4.14. Instruction about keeping a secret
Better keep quiet about it. Waa’ee isa yoo caaldhiste wayya.
最好保持不说。Zuì hǎo bǎochí bù shuō.
Better keep still about it. Waa’ee isa yoo hin kasne wayya.
最好不用提这些。Zuì hǎo bùyòng tí zhèxiē.
Keep it to yourself. Kun iccittiin si bira haa ta’u.
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这你就留着保密。Zhè nǐ jiù liúzhe bǎomì.
Don’t breathe a word of this to anyone.
Waa’ee kana nama kamittiyyuu afuura hin bafaattin.
不要对任何人说这句话。
Bùyào duì rènhé rén shuō zhè jù huà.
Don’t breathe a word of it.
Nama kamitti iyyuu akka hin dubbanne.
一句话也不要说。Yījù huà yě bùyào shuō.
Don’t let it out of this room. it = the secret
Mana kana keessa akka hin banne.
不要门外出去说。Bùyào mén wài chūqù shuō.
Don’t let this go any further.
Don’t tell a soul. => a soul = a person

Nama biratti hin himin.
不要告诉任何人。Bùyào gàosù rènhé rén.
Mum’s the word. mum = a word referring to a closed mouth
Kan irraa hin deebi’amneedha.
妈妈说了算。Māmā shuōle suàn.
Play dumb. Sobee gowwaa 装傻。Zhuāng shǎ.
This is top secret. Iccittii guddaadha.
极度机密。Jídù jīmì.
Don’t say I told you. Akkan dubbaadhe ati hin dubbaattin.
别说我告诉过你。Bié shuō wǒ gàosùguò nǐ.
Don’t say who told you. Nama sittii hime hin dubbaattin.
不要说是谁告诉你的。Bùyào shuō shì shéi gàosù nǐ de.
This is off the record. off the record = not to be reported or quoted
Kun galmee hin qabu.
这是不公开的。Zhè shì bù gōngkāi de.
This is not for public knowledge.
Kun namni hundi beekuu miti.
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这不是为了公众知道。Zhè bùshì wèile gōngzhòng zhīdào.
2.4.15. Promising to keep secret
I won’t tell a soul. => a soul = a person
Eenyuutti iyyuu hin himu.
我不会告诉任何人。Wǒ bù huì gàosù rènhé rén.
My lips are sealed. (cliché) Afaan koo cufadherraa.
我闭上了嘴。Wǒ bì shàngle zuǐ.
It won’t leave this room. Mana kana alaa hin ba’u.
他不会离开这个房间。Tā bù huì líkāi zhège fángjiān.
Wild horses couldn’t drag it out of me. (cliché)
Wanti kam iyyuu na hin dubbaachisu.
任何事情也不能劝说我做。
Rènhé shìqíng yě bùnéng quànshuō wǒ zuò
I’ll take it to my grave. = I’ll die without telling the secret to
anyone. Osoon dubbaattin nan du’a.
我死也不告诉任何人这个秘密。
Wǒ sǐ yě bù gàosù rènhé rén zhège mìmì.
2.4.16. Forgetfullness
Where was I? = What was I saying?
Maal jechaan ture? Maal dubbachaan ture?
我刚才说什么？Wǒ gāngcái shuō shénme?
What were we talking about?
Waa’ee maali dubbachaa ture?
我们在谈什么？我们在说什么？
Wǒmen zài tán shénme? Wǒmen zài shuō shénme?
I don’t remember. Hin yaadadhu.
我不记得了。Wǒ bù jìdéliǎo.
I have a mind like a sieve. => a sieve = a strainer or colander
Salphaattin waa irraanfadha. Waa hin yaadadhu.
我记性不好，容易忘事。
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Wǒ jìxìng bù hǎo, róngyì wàng shì.
I’m a little absent-minded. => absentminded = forgetful
Xiqqoo waa hin yaadadhu.
我一个有点不留心的人。心不在焉。
Wǒ yīgè yǒudiǎn bù liúxīn de rén. Xīnbùzàiyān.
I’d lose my head if it weren’t attached. (informal)
Mataa koo iyyuu irraanfadheen ture osoo inni itti hin qabane ta’ee.
如果没有链接，我会失去理智。
Rúguǒ méiyǒu liánjiē, wǒ huì shīqù lǐzhì.
I’ve lost my train of thought. => train of thought = sequence of
thoughts
Qalbiin na keessa badee jira.
我失去了思路。Wǒ shīqùle sīlù.
It’s at the tip of my tongue. = It is about ready to be said.
Arraba koo irra jira. = Dubbachuuf qopha’aadha.
差一点就说出，几乎想起。
Chà yīdiǎn jiù shuō chū, jīhū xiǎngqǐ.
It’s on the tip of my tongue.
Yaadachaan ture.
差一点就说出。Chà yīdiǎn jiù shuō chū
It’s slipped my mind. Nan irraanfadhee.
我忘了。Wǒ wàngle.
The thought escapes me. Yaadachuu hin dandeenye.
我想不起来了。Wǒ xiǎng bù qǐláile.
It’s left my head. Irraanfadheerra.
忘记了。Wàngjìle.
What was your name again? Maqaan kee eenyu ture.
你叫什么名字？Nǐ jiào shénme míngzì?
What did you just say? Amma kana maal jette?
你刚才说什么？Nǐ gāngcái shuō shénme?
It went in one ear and out the other. (cliché)
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Gurra tokkoon seene gurra tokkon ba’ee.
如同耳边风，总是忘事。
Rútóng ěrbiānfēng, zǒng shì wàng shì.
Are we supposed to be someplace right now?
Amma kanatti bakka bira jiraachu qabna ture?
我们现在应该在什么地方吗？
Wǒmen xiànzài yīnggāi zài shénme dìfāng ma?
2.4.17. When you are in trouble
I’m in trouble. Rakkinaa keessan jira.
我有麻烦了。Wǒ yǒu máfanle.
I’m in big trouble. Rakkinaa cimaa keessan jira.
我有大麻烦。Wǒ yǒu dà máfan.
I’m in deep trouble.
我深陷困境。Wǒ shēn xiàn kùnjìng.
I’m in over my head. Rakkini sammuu koo ol ta’ee jira.
我不能理解。我不能承担。
Wǒ bùnéng lǐjiě. Wǒ bùnéng chéngdān.
I’m in way over my head. Hundii mataa koo ol ta’ee jira.
我有点不知所措。Wǒ yǒudiǎn bùzhī suǒ cuò.
I’m behind the eight ball. (idiomatic) = I’m in trouble with
someone. Ammas nama wajjiin rakkinaa keessan jira.
我乂陷人了困境。Wǒ yì xiàn rénle kùnjìng.
2.4.18. When someone is in trouble
Your goose is cooked. (idiomatic) = You are in trouble.
Rakkinaa keessa jirta.
奸计失败，你踢到铁板了。
Jiānjì shībài; nǐ tī dào tiě bǎnle
You’ve really screwed up. (informal)
Ati dhugaa rakkinni sitti marsee.
你真的搞砸了。Nǐ zhēn de gǎo zále.
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You’ve done it now. Amma hojjette jirta.
你现在已经做到了。Nǐ xiànzài yǐjīng zuò dàole.
Now you’ve done it. Amma hojjete.
现在你做到了。Xiànzài nǐ zuò dàole.
You’ve really done it this time. Amma sirriitti hojjete jirta.
这次你真的做到了。Zhè cì nǐ zhēn de zuò dàole.
You’re in for it. Milka’uuf itti seente jirta.
你会成功的。Nǐ huì chénggōng de.
You’re gonna get it. (informal)
你会明白的。Nǐ huì míngbái de.
How could you do something so stupid?
Akkamin wanta doofaa kana hojjeta.
你怎么能做这么蠢的事？
Nǐ zěnme néng zuò zhème chǔn de shì?
What kind of mess did you get yourself into?
Rakkinaa akkami keessa akka of galchitee?
你把自己弄得一团糟？
Nǐ bǎ zìjǐ nòng dé yītuánzāo?
That’s another fine mess you’ve gotten us into. (informal)
Kun rakkina bira ati nutti fideedha.
你又把我们弄得一团糟。
Nǐ yòu bǎ wǒmen nòng dé yītuánzāo.
How are you going to dig yourself out of this one?
Rakkina kana keessa akkimiin of baasta?
你打算如何摆脱这一困境？
Nǐ dǎsuàn rúhé bǎituō zhè yī kùnjìng?
How are you going to get out of this one?
Akkamin isa kana keessa baata?
你将如何摆脱这个？Nǐ jiàng rúhé bǎituō zhège?
You’ve made your bed; now lie in it. = You have created this
situation, so you must endure it.
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Akka ofi fiidetti ofii xumuri. Kan harkaan facaasan haamtu.
自食其果，自作自受。Zìshíqíguǒ, zìzuòzìshòu.
You’re up a creek. (informal) Rakkinaa keessa jirta.
你有麻烦了。Nǐ yǒu máfanle.
You’re up the creek. (informal）
Rakkina cimaa keessa galte jirta.
你现在处境艰难。Nǐ xiànzài chǔjìng jiānnán.
2.4.19. When you are out of money
I’m broke. => broke = without any money Kasareen jira.
我破产了。Wǒ pòchǎnle.
I’m dead broke. Hiyyeessa qulqulluu ta’een jira.
一贫如洗的，身无分文的，我破了产。
Yīpínrúxǐ de, shēn wú fēn wén de, Wǒ pòle chǎn de.
I’m flat broke. Waan tokkoo illee hin qabu.
我都身无分文。Wǒ dū shēn wú fēn wén.
I’m flatter than a pancake. (informal) flatter than a pancake = as
flat broke as is possible. Harka qullaa ta’een jira.
我什么都没有了。Wǒ shénme dōu méiyǒule.
I don’t have a dollar to my name. => to my name = in my
ownership Qarshiin maqaa koo hin jiru.
我名下一块钱也没有。
Wǒ yīkuài qián yě méiyǒu.
I don’t have a penny to my name. / I don’t have a cent to my name.
Santimaa tokkoollee maqaa koon hin qabu.
我一分钱也没有。
Wǒ yī fēn qián yě méiyǒu.
I don’t have a red cent. (informal) red cent = a copper penny
Qarshii wayyuu hin qabu.
我没有一分钱。Wǒ méiyǒu yī fēn qián.
I’m busted. (slang) => busted = without any money
Qarshii hin qabu.
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我没钱了，我没有钱。Wǒ méi qiánle, wǒ méiyǒu qián.
My pockets are empty. Kiisin koo duwwadha.
我没钱了，我口袋是空的。
Wǒ méi qiánle, wǒ kǒudài shì kōng de.
I have empty pockets.
我口袋是空的。Wǒ kǒudài shì kōng de.
All I have is the shirt on my back. => the shirt on my back = the
clothes that you see me in
Wanti ani qabu uffatan uffaadhe qofa.
我只有背上衬衫。Wǒ zhǐyǒu bèi shàng chènshān.
I’ve got nothing but the shirt on my back.
Uffatan uffadhee malee homa hin qabu.
除了背上的衬衫，我什么都没有。
Chúle bèi shàng de chènshān, wǒ shénme dōu méiyǒu
All I have is my good name. => my good name = my reputation
Wanti ani qabu kabaaja koo qofa.
我只有我的好名声。
Wǒ zhǐyǒu wǒ de hǎo míngshēng.
I don’t know where my next meal is coming from.
Nyaatni koo itti anu eessa akka dhufu hin beeku.
我不知道我的西一餐是从哪里来的。
Wǒ bù zhīdào wǒ de xià yī cān shì cóng nǎlǐ lái de.
My savings are wiped out.
Qusannaan koo dhumee jira.
我的存款花光了。
I’ve lost everything. Waan hundaa dhabeen jira.
我失去了一切。
I’m bankrupt. Kasareen jira. 我破产了。
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2.4.20. When someone is in debt
I’m in the red. => red = red ink = indebtedness
Diimaa keessa galan jira. / Liqii keessa galeen jira.
我欠了债。Wǒ qiànle zhài.
She’s in over her head (in debt). (idiomatic)
Liqiin humna ishee ol ta’ee jira.
她负债了太多。Tā fùzhàile tài duō.
I’m up to my ears in debt. (idiomatic)
Liqiin baay’ee natti ta’ee jira.
我债台高筑。Wǒ zhàitáigāozhù.
Bill’s writing rubber checks. => a rubber check = a bad check (that
bounces back from the bank because there is no money to pay it)
Liqiin ofirraa haqu dhabeerra.
不知如何还给钱。Bùzhī rúhé hái gěi qián
I’m borrowing from Peter to pay Paul. (idiomatic)
Peexroos irraa liqeeffadhen Phawuloosiif kafalee.
我向彼得借钱给保罗。Wǒ xiàng bǐdé jiè qián gěi bǎoluó.
I’m robbing Peter to pay Paul. (idiomatic)
Peexroos sameen Phaawuloos kafalee.
我要抢彼得来付钱给保罗。
Wǒ yào qiǎng bǐdé lái fù qián gěi bǎoluó.
2.4.21. Expressing stress or anxiety
I’m going nuts. (slang) => nuts = crazy / I’m going crazy.
Maraachufaan jedha.
我是要疯了。我快要疯了。
Wǒ shì yào fēngle. Wǒ kuàiyào fēngle.
I’m losing my mind. I’m losing my marbles. (informal) losing my
marbles = losing my intellect
Sammuu kon gad dhiisan jira.
我快要疯了。我快要失去理智。
Wǒ kuàiyào fēngle. Wǒ kuàiyào shīqù lǐzhì.
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I’m freaking out. (slang) Sodaachan jira.
我吓坏了。Wǒ xià huàile.
I’m spazzing out. (slang)
Baay’ee aaraan jira. Na jibbisisaa jira.
我好生气，好尴尬。Wǒ hào shēngqì, hǎo gāngà.
I’m mad at the world.
Ani addunyaa kanatti aareen jira.
我对这个世界很生气。Wǒ duì zhège shìjiè hěn shēngqì.
I need a break. Boqonnaan barbaada.
我需要休息一下。Wǒ xūyào xiūxí yīxià.
I need some sleep. Rafuun barbaada.
我想睡一下。Wǒ xiǎng shuì yīxià.
I’m going to explode. Dho’uufin jedha.
我要爆炸了。Wǒ yào bàozhàle.
My head is going to explode. Mataan koo dho’uuf jedha.
我的头要爆炸了。Wǒ de tóu yào bàozhàle.
Everything is getting on my nerves.
Wantii hundii sammuutti na deema.
一切都让我心烦意乱。Yīqiè dōu ràng wǒ xīnfán yì luàn.
I can’t take it anymore. Kana caalaa hin danda’u.
我再也受不了了。Wǒ zài yě shòu bùliǎole.
I can’t take another problem.
Rakkinaa kana caalaa hin fudhu.
我受不了别的问题。Wǒ shòu bùliǎo bié de wèntí.
I can’t deal with this anymore. Kana caalaa hin danda’u.
我再也受不了了。Wǒ zài yě shòu bùliǎole.
I’m on pins and needles. (idiomatic) on pins and needles = in
anxious anticipation Nama lilmo irraa ta’een ta’e.
我如坐针毡。Wǒ rúzuòzhēnzhān
I’m a bundle of nerves. Rifaachaan jira.
我非常紧张。Wǒ fēicháng jǐnzhāng.
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I’ve got butterflies in my stomach. (idiomatic) = My stomach is
feeling like it is fluttering. Qalbiin boqonnaa na dhabdee.
我肚子里有蝴蝶。Wǒ dùzi li yǒu húdié.
I’m coming apart at the seams. Kufuuf jechaan jira.
我快崩溃了。Wǒ kuài bēngkuìle.
I’m falling apart at the seams.
我快要崩溃了。Wǒ kuàiyào bēngkuìle.
2.4.22. When you are overworked and doing too much
I’m burning the candle at both ends. (cliché)
Shaamaa gamlamaan ibsaan jira.
我正在两端都燃烧蜡烛。
Wǒ zhèngzài liǎng duān dōu ránshāo làzhú.
I scarcely have time to breathe.
Yeroon itti afuura bafaadhu hin jiru.
我几乎没有时间呼吸。Wǒ jīhū méiyǒu shíjiān hūxī.
I have no time to call my own.
Yeroon itti of waamu iyyuu dhabeen jira.
我没有时间留给自己。Wǒ méiyǒu shíjiān liú jǐ zìjǐ.
2.4.23. When someone is anxious and under stress
Calm down. Tasgabbaa’i!
冷静下来。Lěngjìng xiàlái.
Simmer down. Suuta jedhi. Tasgabbaa’i.
平静下来。Píngjìng xiàlái.
Control yourself. (informal) Of to’aadhu.
控制自己。Kòngzhì zìjǐ.
Don’t go into hysterics. Baay’ee ol of kasuuf hin deemin.
不要歇斯底里。bùyào xiēsīdǐlǐ.
Don’t be such a worrywart. => a worrywart = a person who
worries a lot Waa’ee waan baay’ee hin dhiphattin.
别这么担心。Bié zhème dānxīn.
Don’t worry yourself sick. Hin dhiphaattin
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别担心了。Bié dānxīnle.
Don’t lose sleep over it. Kanaaf hirriba kee hin dhabu.
不要为此而失眠。Bùyào wèi cǐ ér shīmián.
Don’t let it get to you. Kun akka si hin minnee.
别让它影响到你。Bié ràng tā yǐngxiǎng dào nǐ.
Don’t trouble yourself. Rakkinaatti of hin galchiin.
不要给自己添麻烦了。别自找麻烦了。
Bùyào jǐ zìjǐ tiān máfanle. Bié zì zhǎo máfanle.
You’ll send yourself to an early grave. => an early grave = an early
death Ariifate du’aatti of hin ergiin.
你会自己早死去。Nǐ huì zìjǐ zǎo sǐqù.
2.4.24. Encouraging someone no to be offended – informal
Don’t get all bent out of shape!
Wantii hundii jal’ate hin jedhin.
不要让所有弯曲变形。
Bùyào ràng suǒyǒu wānqū biànxíng!
Don’t get your nose out of joint!
Hin aariin ega, hin dhiphaattin.
别生气了。Bié shēngqìle.
Don’t be so sensitive! Akkas si’ayyaa hin ta’iin.
别这么敏感了。Bié zhème mǐngǎnle.
Learn to roll with the punches. Madaquu barrii.
学会随机应变。Xuéhuì suíjīyìngbiàn.
I didn’t mean any harm. Midhaa kamif iyyuu miti.
我没有恶意。Wǒ méiyǒu èyì.
2.4.25. Encouraging someone not to be excited
Pull yourself together. Gad of qabi. 振作起来。
Don’t get excited. Baay’istee hin gammadiin.
别激动。Bié jīdòng.
Don’t get all excited. Garmalee hin gammadiin.
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别这么开心了。别激动。Bié zhème kāixīnle. Bié jīdòng.
Don’t get all worked up. Hundii ta’ee jette hin yaadin.
别那么激动。Bié nàme jīdòng.
Don’t blow your stack. (slang) to blow your stack = to lose your
temper; to go crazy Gammachuu kee qilleensan hin guutin.
别自吹自擂。Bié zìchuīzìléi.
Don’t lose your cool. (slang) Of qabbanessii.
不要失去冷静。Bùyào shīqù lěngjìng.
Don’t blow your cool. (slang)
冷静一下，冷静。Lěngjìng yīxià, lěngjìng.
Don’t blow a gasket. (slang) Miira kee tasgabbeessi.
别发脾气了。Bié fā píqìle.
Don’t fly off the handle. Hangas hin gammadiin.
不要这么冲动。Bùyào zhème chōngdòng
Don’t pop your cork. (slang) to pop your cork = to go crazy
Maraatuu hin ta’iin.
别发风了。Bié fāfēngle.
Don’t work yourself into a tizzy. (informal) a tizzy = a dizzy,
confused state Hin jaanjaa’iin.
别混淆了。Bié hùnxiáole.
Don’t run around like a chicken with its head cut off. (informal)
Akka lukkuu mormii irraa citee hin naanna’in.
不要像被砍头的鸡一样到处乱跑。
Bùyào xiàng bèi kǎn tóu de jī yīyàng dàochù luàn pǎo.
Restrain yourself. Of to’aadhu.
克制你自己。克制点。Kèzhì nǐ zìjǐ. Kèzhì diǎn.
Would you restrain yourself? Of to’aachu ni dandeessa?
你能克制自己吗？Nǐ néng kèzhì zìjǐ ma?
2.4.26. Encouraging someone to relax
Mellow out. (slang) => Adopt a calm attitude.
Bohaarii, bashannanii!
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放松一下，对自己好点。
Fàngsōng yīxià， duì zìjǐ hǎo yīdiǎn
Chill out. (slang) Qabbana’ii, suuta jedhi.
冷静一下，安静。Lěngjìng yīxià, ānjìng.
Chill. (slang) Qabbana’aa. 冷静下来。Lěngjìng xiàlái.
Keep cool. (slang) Qabbana’ii. 保持冷静。Bǎochí lěngjìng.
Cool it. (slang) Qabbana’ii. 冷静点。Lěngjìng diǎn.
Cool your jets. (slang) Qabbana’ii. 冷静点。Lěngjìng diǎn.
Cool off. (informal) Cool down. (informal) Simmer down
Qabbana’ii. 冷静下来。Lěngjìng xiàlái.
Slow down. Suuta jedhi. 慢点。Màn diǎn.
Calm down. Qabbana’ii. 冷静下来。Lěngjìng xiàlái.
Be calm. Tasgabbaa’ii. 冷静点。Lěngjìng diǎn.
Calm yourself. Of tasgabbeessi. 冷静点。
Relax. Bohaarii. 放松，放松点。
Deal with it. (informal) Itti dhiphaadhu. 处理好它。
Hold your horses. (cliché) Hin yaadda’iin. 别急。
Keep your shirt on. (informal) Keep your pants on. (informal)
Hin rifaatiin. Hin dhiphattiin.
别慌，沉住气，别着急。Bié huāng, chénzhùqì, bié zhāojí.
Take a deep breath. Afuura dheeraa baafadhu.
深吸一口气。Shēn xī yī kǒuqì.
Take it easy. Salphissii fudhu. Salphaatti ilaali.
别紧张。Bié jǐnzhāng.
Take it slow. Suuta itti deemi. Hin dhiphattiin.
慢慢来。Màn man lái.
Take a pill! (informal) Qabbanaa’ii. 冷静一下。
2.4.27. Encourage someone to be less aggressive – informal
Don’t have a cow (slang)! Baay’istee hin aariin.
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别发火，别那么发脾气，别大惊小怪。
Bié fāhuǒ, bié nàme fā píqì, bié dàjīngxiǎoguài.
Don’t have a conniption fit. Hangas hin aariin. Miira kee ilaali.
别大发脾气，不要激怒。Bié dà fā píqì, bùyào jīnù.
Don’t throw a fit.
别大发脾气，别大为烦恼。
Bié dà fā píqì, bié dà wéi fánnǎo.
Don’t have a fit. Aarii hin bulgafattin
别发火。Bié fāhuǒ
Give it a break. / Give it a rest. Boqonnaa keennif.
歇一下，让它休息一下。Xiē yīxià, ràng tā xiūxí yīxià.
You got ants in your pants?
Mucaa hudduun abidda jala keesse? Maaf sardamtaa?
你裤子里有蚂蚁吗？你为何坐立不安？
Nǐ kùzi li yǒu mǎyǐ ma? Nǐ wèihé zuòlìbù'ān?
2.4.28. When someone is in cold and unfeeling – informal
You’re as cold as ice. Akka cabbii qorittee jirta.
你冷得像冰一样。Nǐ lěng dé xiàng bīng yīyàng.
You’re a cold fish. Ati nama dilallaa’adha.
你是个冷酷的人。Nǐ shìgè lěngkù de rén.
You’re cold-blooded. Ati kan namaf hin yaadnedha.
你是个冷血的人。Nǐ shìgè lěngxuè de rén.
You’ve got a heart of stone. Ati garaa jabeessadha.
你真是铁石心肠。Nǐ zhēnshi tiěshí xīncháng.
You’ve got no heart. Ati garaa hin qabdu.
你没有勇气。Nǐ méiyǒu yǒngqì.
You’re heartless. Ati sodaattudha. Ati onneen qabdu.
你真无情。Nǐ zhēn wúqíng.
You’re thick-skinned. 你是个感觉迟钝的人。
Nǐ shìgè gǎnjué chídùn de rén.
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Have you no qualms? Nagaan sitti hin dhaga’amu?
你没有感到不安吗？Nǐ méiyǒu gǎndào bù'ān ma?
Have you no scruples? Ati hin nattuu?
你毫无顾忌吗？Nǐ háo wú gùjì ma?
Have you no conscience? Ati hin yaadu?
你没有良心吗？Nǐ méiyǒu liángxīn ma?
Have you no thought for anyone but yourself?
Ati ofiif malee namaf hin yaadu?
除了你自己，你没有为别人着想吗？
Chúle nǐ zìjǐ, nǐ méiyǒu wéi biérén zhuóxiǎng ma?
Think before you speak. / Think before you act.
Osoon dubbaattin itti yaadi. Osoon hojjeettin itti yaadi.
三思而后行。Sānsī érhòu xíng.
Try putting yourself in my shoes. = Think what it is like to be in
my situation.
Bakka koo of ka’iitti ilaali.
站在别人的角度去想一想，去明白对方的处境。
Zhàn zài biérén de jiǎodù qù xiǎng yī xiǎng, qù míngbái
duìfāng de chǔjìng.
2.4.29. What to say to smoker
This is a nonsmoking area. Kun bakka itti xuuxamu miti.
这是禁烟区。Zhè shì jìnyān .
This is a nonsmoking building. Kun bakka xuuxuun itti
dhorkaa ta’eedha. Xuuxuun dhorkaadha.
禁止吸烟区。Jìnzhǐ xīyān qū.
You’ll have to step outside. Bakke bahuu qabda.
你必修出去，你得出去。Nǐ bìxū chūqù, nǐ dé chūqù.
Please observe the no-smoking signs. (formal)
Maaloo xuuxuun dhorkaadha kan jedhu kabaaji.
请遵守禁烟标志。Qǐng zūnshǒu jìnyān biāozhì.
Can you put that out? Maaloo kana gad dhamsu ni dandeessa?
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你能把它关掉吗？Nǐ néng bǎ tā guān diào ma?
Please put that out. Dhamsii maaloo!
请把它关掉！Qǐng bǎ tā guān diào!
I’m sorry, you’ll have to put that out.
Dhiifama, dhamsuun sirra jira.
对不起，你得把它关掉。Duìbùqǐ, nǐ dé bǎ tā guān diào.
I’m sorry, the smoke is bothering me.
Dhiifama, sigaaraan nagaa na dhorkaa.
对不起，吸烟让我不舒服。
Duìbùqǐ, xīyān ràng wǒ bú shūfú.
Have you ever thought of quitting?
Dhiisuuf yaade beekta?
你想过戒烟吗？Nǐ xiǎngguò jièyān ma?
It’s your funeral. (informal)
Kun rakkinaa keedha. Kun hanga du’aa keetti.
这是你的责任，自找苦吃，自找麻烦。
Zhè shì nǐ de zérèn, zì zhǎo kǔ chī, zì zhǎo máfan.
You smoke like a chimney. (informal)
Baay’ee xuuxaa.
你抽烟很厉害。Nǐ chōuyān hěn lìhài.
2.4.30. A smoker’s response to non-smoker’s complaint
Mind your own business. Dhimma kee hojjeedhu.
管好你自己的事。Guǎn hǎo nǐ zìjǐ de shì.
Go to a nonsmoking area. Deemi bakka itti hin xuuxamne.
去禁烟区。Qù jìnyān qū.
I can’t quit. Dhiisuu hin danda’u.
我不能戒烟。Wǒ bùnéng jièyān.
I tried quitting. Dhiisuu yaallen ture.
我试着戒烟。Wǒ shìguò jièyān.
I have no intention of quitting. Dhiisuuf yaada hin qabu.
我没有戒烟的打算。Wǒ méiyǒu jièyān de dǎsuàn.
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Sorry. Dhiifama. 抱歉，对不起，不哈意思。
2.4.31. Questions a smoker might ask
Got a match? Qabsiiftu abiddaa qabda?
有火柴吗？Yǒu huǒchái ma?
You got a lighter? Qabsiiftuu qabattee?
你有打火机吗？Nǐ yǒu dǎhuǒjī ma?
Can I bum a light? => to bum = to beg
Qabsiiftu naaf ergistaa？
你能给我打火机吗？Nǐ néng gěi wǒ dǎhuǒjī ma?
Can I bum a cigarette off you?
Sigaaraa qabsiifadhu?
我能从你借支烟吗？Wǒ néng cóng nǐ jièzhī yān ma?
Where is the smoking room?
Eessaa kutaan itti xuuxaan?
吸烟室在哪里？Xīyān shì zài nǎlǐ?
Where can you smoke around here?
Naannoo kana bakki itti xuuxaan eessaa?
这附近哪里可以吸烟？Zhè fùjìn nǎlǐ kěyǐ xīyān?
Do you mind if I smoke?
Yoon xuuxee maal sitti fakkaata?
你介意我抽烟吗？Nǐ jièyì wǒ chōuyān ma?
2.5. Disputes
2.5.1. Criticism of someone with whom you disagree
You’re clueless. (informal) Ati wayyuu hin beektu.
你真糊涂，你一无所知。Nǐ zhēn hútú, nǐ yī wú suǒ zhī.
You’re without a clue. (informal) Ati odeefannoo hin qabdu.
你毫无头绪。Nǐ háo wú tóuxù.
You wouldn’t know the truth if it jumped up and bit you on the
nose. (jocular)
Osoo dhugaan si rukkutee iyyuu ati dhugaa hin beektu.
如果它跳起来咬你的鼻子，你也不会知道真相。
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Rúguǒ tā tiào qǐlái yǎo nǐ de bízi, nǐ yě bù huì zhīdào zhēnxiàng.
She doesn’t know anything. (informal)
Isheen homaa hin beektu.
她什么都不知道。Tā shénme dōu bù zhīdào.
You don’t know beans. (informal) Homaan beektu.
一窍不通。Yīqiàobùtōng
You don’t know up from down. (informal)
Ati gubbaa gadiitti hin beektu.
你不知道从上到下。Nǐ bù zhīdào cóng shàng dào xià.
You don’t know which end is up. (informal)
Ati kaamtu dhumaa akka ta’ee hin beektu.
你不知道最后是哪一个。Nǐ bù zhīdào zuìhòu shì nǎ yīgè.
You don’t know your ass from your elbow. (vulgar)
Joonjaa’aa, waan beektu.
狗屁不懂，愚蠢。Gǒupì bù dǒng, yúchǔn.
You don’t know your ass from a hole in the ground. (vulgar)
Waa adda hin baastu, doofaa, daallee.
四六不分，愚蠢。Sìliù bù fēn, yúchǔn.
You don’t know quality from a hole in the ground. (informal) =>
quality = art, value, truth, engines, etc.
Ati dhugaa adda baaste hin beektu.
不知真相。Bùzhī zhēnxiàng.
Don’t you know anything? Wayyuu hin beektu?
你什么都不知道吗？Nǐ shénme dōu bù zhīdào ma?
How can you be so stupid? (informal)
Akkam akkas doofaa taata?
你怎么这么笨？你怎么可以这么傻？
Nǐ zěnme zhème bèn? Nǐ zěnme kěyǐ zhème shǎ?
Get your head out of the sand. (idiomatic)
Of hin dhoksiin, dhugaa dubbaadhu.
不承认事实。Bù chéngrèn shìshí.
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That ain’t the way I heard it. (folksy)
Kun wantaan dhaga’ee miti.
我不是这样听说的。Wǒ bùshì zhèyàng tīng shuō de.
That’s not what I heard.
Kanan dhaga’ee miti.
我不是这么听说的。Wǒ bùshì zhème tīng shuō de.
2.5.2. Calling someone crazy
You’re off your rocker. (informal)
Ati salphaa dhumaatti maraatee jirta.
你简直疯了。你真是疯了。
Nǐ jiǎnzhí fēngle. Nǐ zhēnshi fēngle.
You’re out of your mind. (informal)
Ati sammuu kee gad dhistee jirta.
你脑子有病啊。你脑子有毛病啊。
Nǐ nǎozi yǒu bìng a. Nǐ nǎozi yǒu máobìng a.
You’re out of your tree. (slang)
Gad dhistee jirta.
脑子有病。神经病啊！Nǎozi yǒu bìng. Shénjīngbìng a!
You’re out of your head. (informal)
Sammuun kee sirrii miti. Mataan kee nagaa miti.
你疯啦。有毛病。Nǐ fēng la. Yǒu máobìng.
She’s out of her skull. (informal)
Isheen sammuu ishee gad dhiiste jirti.
她疯了。她有毛病。Tā fēngle. Tā yǒu máobìng.
You’ve lost your marbles. (informal)
Qalbiin si keessa hin jirtu. Sitti marerraa.
你已经昏了头吧！你已经失去了理智。
Nǐ yǐjīng hūnle tóu ba! Nǐ yǐjīng shīqùle lǐzhì.
You’re crazy. (informal)
Ati maraataadha. Ati maraatuudha.
你疯了。有病啊。Nǐ fēngle. Yǒu bìng a.
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You’re nuts. (informal)
Maraatee jirta. Maraatte jirti.
神经病啊。Shénjīngbìng a.
They can’t be serious.
Isaan dhugaa miti.
他们不可能是认真的。Tāmen bù kěnéng shì rènzhēn de.
2.5.3. Questioning someone’s sanity
Are you crazy? Ni maraatee? 你疯了吗？Nǐ fēngle ma?
Is he nuts? (slang) => nuts = crazy
Inni maraatudha? 他疯了吗？Tā fēngle ma?
Are you psychotic, or what? Ni maraate moo maalii?
你有精神病吗？Nǐ yǒu jīngshénbìng ma?
Are you out of your mind? Sammuu kee gad dhiiste?
你疯了吗？Nǐ fēngle ma?
Are you out of your head? Mataa kee hin hojjeettu?
Are you out of your gourd? (informal) gourd = head
Sammuun kee hin hojjeettu? 你疯了吗？Nǐ fēngle ma?
Are you out of your skull? (informal)
Ni maraatee? 你疯了吗？Nǐ fēngle ma?
Are you out of your tree? (slang) Ni gad dhiiste?
你神经病啊？Nǐ shénjīngbìng a?
Are you out of it? => it implies mind, head
Sammuun kee alaa taatte?
你有毛病啊？Nǐ yǒu máobìng a?
Have you gone crazy? Qulaa buste? Ni maraate?
Have you gone insane? Ni maraate?
Have you gone mad? Maraate?
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Have you gone stark raving mad? Ni maraate?

你发疯了吗？Nǐ fāfēngle ma?
Have you gone loco? (informal) loco (Spanish) = crazy
Ni maraate? 你是不是疯了？Nǐ shì bùshì fēngle?
Have you gone plumb loco? (informal) plumb loco = completely
crazy Guutummatti maraatee?
你是不是完全疯了呢？Nǐ shì bùshì wánquán fēngle ne?
Have you lost your mind? Ni maraatee?
Have you lost your senses?
Ni maraate? 你疯了吗？Nǐ fēngle ma?
Have you lost your marbles?
Ni gad dhiiste? Ni maraatee?
你精神病吗？你疯了吗？
Nǐ jīngshénbìng ma? Nǐ fēngle ma?
Have you completely flipped out? (slang)
Guutummaatti maraatee jirta?
你完全疯了吗？Nǐ wánquán fēngle ma?
Have you flipped your lid? (slang) Ni maraatee?
Have you completely lost it? (informal)
Ni gad dhiiste? Ni maraatee?
你完全疯了吗？Nǐ wánquán fēngle ma?
Have you completely lost touch with reality?
Guutummaan sammuu kee gad dhiiste?
你已经完全脱离现实了吗？
Nǐ yǐjīng wánquán tuōlí xiànshíle ma?
Have you taken leave of your senses?
Sammuu keerraa adda baate?
你失去理智了吗？Nǐ shīqù lǐzhìle ma?
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Do you have a screw loose? (slang)
Biloonni keettu laafee?
你精神有问题吗？你脑子有病吗？
Nǐ jīngshén yǒu wèntí ma? Nǐ nǎozi yǒu bìng ma?
2.5.4. Asking about the alertness of someone
Hello? (informal) Hello 你好！Nǐ hǎo!
What are you thinking?
Maal yaada jirta? 你在想什么？Nǐ zài xiǎng shénme?
What’s your deal? (informal)
Maaltu ta’ee? Akkamin akkas ta’ee?
这是怎么回事？什么情况？出什么事了？
Zhè shì zěnme huí shì? Shénme qíngkuàng? Chū shénme shìle?
What’s your problem? (informal)
Rakkinni kee maalii? Maal taatte?
你怎么回事？你到底有什么问题？
Nǐ zěnme huí shì? Nǐ dàodǐ yǒu shé me wèntí?
What ([kind of] drugs) are you on? (informal)
Qorichaa kam liqimsaa jirta?
你在吃什么药？Nǐ zài chī shénme yào?
What have you been smoking? (informal)
Maal arsaa jirta?
你一直在抽什么？Nǐ yīzhí zài chōu shénme?
2.5.5. Encouraging someone to be more sensible
Get a life! (informal) Nan jeeqin. Waan bira hojjedhu.
别来烦我了。做点别的有益的事。
Bié lái fán wǒle. Zuò diǎn bié de yǒuyì de shì.
Get real! Dhugaadha. 来真的。Lái zhēn de
Snap out of it. Damaqii aboo! Ka’ii gaa!
振作起来。Zhènzuò qǐlái.
Get with the program. (informal) Gara karooratti deebi’i.
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顺应潮流，跟着计划走。
Shùnyìng cháoliú; gēnzhe jìhuà zǒu
Come back to earth. (informal)
Yaada kee deebissi. 回到现实。Huí dào xiànshí.
2.5.6. Asking in disblief or disagreement
Truly? Dhugaa moo? 真的吗？Zhēn de ma?
Really? Dhugaa? 真的吗？
For real? (informal) Isa dhugaa? 是真的吗？Shì zhēn de ma?
No kidding? Qoosaa hin jirtu miti?
不是开玩笑吧？Bùshì kāiwánxiào ba?
No fooling? (informal) gowwoomsan jirtu miti?
别开玩笑？Bié kāiwánxiào? 不骗人？Bù piàn rén?
No lie? (informal) Sobaan jirtuu? 没有谎言？Méiyǒu huǎngyán?
No way! (informal) Hin ta’u, Hin danda’amu.
不行！不可能！没门儿！Bùxíng! Bù kěnéng! Méimén er!
Are you serious? Dhugaa keedha moo?
你是认真的吗？Nǐ shì zhēn de ma?
Are you for real? (informal) Dhugaa jechaa jirta moo?
你是真的吗？Nǐ shì zhēn de ma?
Are you pulling my leg?
Ati natti qoosaa jirta? 你在开我玩笑吗？
Are you bullshitting me? (mildly vulgar)
Na gowwoomsa jirta? 你在骗我吗？
You’re not trying to pull one over on me, are you?
Na gowwoomsu hin barbaadu miti? 你不是想骗我吧？
2.5.7. When someone says something outrageous
Unbelievable! Kan hin amanamne.
难以置信，不可能的，不能相信。
Nányǐ zhìxìn, bù kěnéng de, bùnéng xiāngxìn.
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Get out of town! Ba’ii asii. Gad ba’ii. 滚出去。Gǔn chūqù.
You’re kidding! Qoosaa jirta.
你在开玩笑。Nǐ zài kāiwánxiào.
You’ve got to be kidding! Qoosaatti jirta.
你在开玩笑吧。Nǐ zài kāiwánxiào ba.
You’ve got to be kidding me! Ati dhugaa qoosaatti jirta.
你一定是开玩笑。Nǐ yīdìng shì kāiwánxiào.
Stop it! (informal) Dhiisii! 住手！Zhùshǒu!
Come on! (informal) Kootukaa! 来吧！
Get out of here! (informal) Ba’ii asiitti. 滚出去。
I can’t believe it! Ani hin amanuu. 真不敢相信。
Do you expect me to believe that?
Akkan amanuu na barbaada. 你希望我相信吗？
That blows my mind. (informal)
Kun sammuu na jeeqe. 这让我大吃一惊。
2.6. Discussion and Resolution
2.6.1. Asking for an explanation
What do you mean? Maal jechuu keedha?
你什么意思？Nǐ shénme yìsi?
What are you saying? Maal jechaa jirtaa?
What are you trying to get at? Maal jechuu barbaade?
What are you getting at? Maal jechuuf jetta?
Do you mean to tell me? Natti himuuf jetta?
你是想告诉我吗？Nǐ shì xiǎng gàosù wǒ ma?
What’s the bottom line? Wanti ati dubbaachu barbaade maali?
你到底想说什么？Nǐ dàodǐ xiǎng shuō shénme?
This all boils down to what? (idiomatic)
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Kun hundii sababa maaliif?
这都是为了什么？Zhè dōu shì wèile shénme?
How so? Akkamitti akkas? 这如何？
So what’s the upshot? Kanaaf wanti jettu maalii?
那你想说的是什么？Nà nǐ xiǎng shuō de shì shénme?
What’s the point? Maal jechuu barbaada?
你的重点什么？你的观点是什么？
Nǐ de zhòngdiǎn shénme? Nǐ de guāndiǎn shì shénme?
2.6.2. Encouraging an explanation
I didn’t get that. Naaf hin gallee. 不明白，不懂。
I didn’t hear you. Sin dhageenye. 没听到。
Cut to the chase. (idiomatic) Sirriitti naaf ibsi.
你详细解释给我。Nǐ xiángxì jiěshì gěi wǒ.
2.6.3. When you don’t understand someone
I don’t see what you’re getting at.
Maal akka jecha jirtu naaf hin gale.
我还是不懂。Wǒ háishì bù dǒng.
I don’t get it. Naaf hin gale. 我不明白。
I don’t follow you. Si hordofaa hin jiru. 我没理解。
I don’t follow. Hordofaa hin jiru. 我不懂。
I’m not sure I follow. Baay’ee naaf gala hin jiru.
我不太明白。Wǒ bù tài míngbái.
I’m not sure I get your point.
Wantaan si hordoffaa jiru natti hin fakkaatu.
我不确定我是否明白你的意思。
Wǒ bù quèdìng wǒ shìfǒu míngbái nǐ de yìsi.
I’m not sure I know what you mean.
Maal akka jette waan naaf galee natti hin fakkaatu.
我不知道我懂你的意思。
Wǒ bù zhīdào wǒ dǒng nǐ de yìsi.
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2.6.4. When someone doesn’t understand you
That’s not what I meant. Akkas jechuu koo miti.
我不是这个意思。Wǒ bùshì zhège yìsi.
That’s not what I said. Wantaan jedhe miti.
我不是这么说的。Wǒ bùshì zhème shuō de.
I didn’t mean that. Akkas jechuu koo miti.
我不是那个意思。Wǒ bùshì nàgè yìsi.
I didn’t say that. Ani akkas hin jenne.
我没那么说。Wǒ méi nàme shuō.
I said no such thing. Ani wanta kana hin jenne.
我没有说过这样的话。
Wǒ méiyǒu shuōguò zhèyàng dehuà.
I didn’t mean to give you that impression.
Ani akkas akka sitti dhaga’amuuf miti.
我不是故意给你那种印象的。
Wǒ bùshì gùyì gěi nǐ nà zhǒng yìnxiàng de.
I didn’t mean to imply that. Beeka miti
我不是故意的。Wǒ bùshì gùyì de.
2.6.5. Criticizing someone’s misunderstanding
Listen to me. Na dhageeffadhuu. 听我说。
Open your ears. (informal) Na dhageeffadhuu.
请听我说。Qǐng tīng wǒ shuō.
Get the wax out of your ears. (informal)
Gurra kee keessa gurrii baasi na dhageeffadhu.
把耳垢去掉，然后倾听我。
Bǎ ěrgòu qùdiào, ránhòu qīngtīng wǒ.
You’re not listening to what I’m saying.
Wanta ani jedhu dhageeffachaa hin jirtu.
你没在听我说什么。Nǐ méi zài tīng wǒ shuō shénme.
You’re only hearing what you want to hear.
Wanta dhaga’uu qabdu qofa dhaga’aa jirta.
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你只听到你想听到的。
Nǐ zhǐ tīng dào nǐ xiǎng tīng dào de.
You’re missing the point. Wanta barbaachisu dhaga’aa hin jirtu
你没有抓住重点。Nǐ méiyǒu zhuā zhù zhòngdiǎn.
That’s not my point. Kun wantaan jechu barbaadu miti.
这不是我的观点。Zhè bùshì wǒ de guāndiǎn.
That’s not the point I’m trying to make.
Kun wanta ani jechuuf yaade miti.
这不是我想说的重点。
Zhè bùshì wǒ xiǎng shuō de zhòngdiǎn.
You’ve got it wrong. Dogogorraa hubaate jirta.
你搞错了。Nǐ gǎo cuòle.
You’ve got it all wrong. Hunda dogogorraa hubaate jirta.
你完全搞错了。Nǐ wánquán gǎo cuòle.
You’ve got me wrong. Dogogorraa na hubaate jirta.
你误会我了。Nǐ wùhuì wǒle.
You’ve twisted my words. Jecha koo dabsitee jirta.
你扭曲了我的话。Nǐ niǔqūle wǒ dehuà
You’re blowing it out of proportion. You scrawed up.
Waliin dhaha jirta.
你把事情搞砸了。Nǐ bǎ shìqíng gǎo zále.
You’re blowing this all out of proportion.
Waan hunda waliin dhoftee jirta.
你把这一切都搞砸了。Nǐ bǎ zhè yīqiè dōu gǎo zále.
2.6.6. Attempting to put an end to a misunderstanding
Let me rephrase that. Mee irra deebi’ee sitti haa himu.
我换个说法就好了，我换个说法就是了。
Wǒ huàngè shuōfǎ jiù hǎole, wǒ huàngè shuōfǎ jiùshìle.
Let me clarify that. Mee sif haa ibsuu.
让我解释一下。Ràng wǒ jiěshì yīxià.
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Allow me to clarify. Mee sif haa ibsu.
请允许我解释一下。Qǐng yǔnxǔ wǒ jiěshì yīxià.
Let me make myself clear. Mee yaada koo sif haa ibsu.
让我说清楚。 Ràng wǒ shuō qīngchǔ.
Let me make myself perfectly clear.
Mee yaada koo sirriitti sif haa ibsu.
让我讲清楚。让我把话说清楚。
Ràng wǒ jiǎng qīngchǔ. Ràng wǒ bǎ huàshuō qīngchǔ.
2.6.7. Encouraging someone to believe you
Honest Amanamaa 诚实的。Chéngshí de.
Honestly. Amanamummaan 真的。
Truly. Dhugummaadhan. 真是，确实。
True. Dhugaa 真的，是的。
That’s the truth. Dhugaadha. 这是真的。
That’s the honest truth. Kun dhugaadha, Kun haqadha.
这是实话。Zhè shì shíhuà.
That’s the honest-to-goodness truth. Kun dhugaa isa sirriidha.
这是诚实的事实。Zhè shì chéngshí de shìshí.
Honest to goodness. Garrumaa amanamaa.
诚实善良。Chéngshí shànliáng.
That’s the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.
Kun dhugaa, guutummatti dhugaafi sobaa hin qabu.
这就是真相，整个真相，除了真相什么都没有。
Zhè jiùshì zhēnxiàng, zhěnggè zhēnxiàng, chúle zhēnxià
ng shénme dōu méiyǒu.
Cross my heart and hope to die. (juvenile)
Kakadheen du’aa.
我发誓，希望死。Wǒ fāshì, xīwàng sǐ.
Would I lie to you? An sin soba?
我会骗你吗？Wǒ huì piàn nǐ ma?
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Why would I lie? Maalifaan si soba?
我为什么撒谎？Wǒ wèishéme yào sāhuǎng?
I swear. Nan kakaadha. 我发誓。
I swear to you. Sin kakaadha. 我向你发誓。
I swear on a stack of Bibles. (mild oath)
Wangellaan / Macaafa qulqulluun nan kakaadha.
拼命赌咒。Pīnmìng dǔzhòu.
I swear on my mother’s grave. (informal)
Harmeen koon sin kakaadha.
我以我母亲的坟墓起誓。
Wǒ yǐ wǒ mǔqīn de fénmù qǐshì.
I swear to God. (mild oath) Maqaa Waaqayyoon sin kakaadha.
我向天发誓。我对天发誓。
Wǒ xiàng tiān fāshì. Wǒ duì tiān fāshì.
May God strike me down if I am not telling you the truth. (mild
oath) Yoon dhugaa miti ta’ee waaqayyoon na haa dhahu.
如果我不告诉你真相，愿上帝击倒我。
Rúguǒ wǒ bù gàosù nǐ zhēnxiàng, yuàn shàngdì jí dǎo wǒ.
That’s the gospel truth. (informal)
Kun dhugaa ani itti amanuudha.
这是福音的真相。Zhè shì fúyīn de zhēnxiàng.
2.6.8. Asking to be trusted
Take my word for it. Na amanii.
相信我的话。Xiāngxìn wǒ dehuà.
You have my word. Waadaan sif gala. 我向你保证。
You have my word on this.
Kanarratti na amanuuni dandeessa. 你完全可以相信我。
I give you my word. Kun jecha koodha. 我对你发誓。
You can count on it. / You can bank on it.
Hin shakkiin. 你可以放心。
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You better believe it. Yoo amantee sif wayya. 你最好相信。
You had better believe it. Amanuuf sif wayya. 你最好相信。
Believe me. Na amanii. 相信我。Xiāngxìn wǒ.
Trust me. Na amanii. 相信我。
Don’t be such a doubting Thomas. Akka Tomas hin ta’iin.
多疑的人。Duōyí de rén
2.6.9. Stating that something is settled
It’s cinched. Bakka qabaterraa. 系紧了。Xì jǐnle.
It’s locked up. Cufamerraa. 搞定了，锁定了。
It’s sewn up. Ta’eerra. Bakka ga’erraa. 缝好了。Fèng hǎole.
It’s a sure thing. Waan dhugaadha. 这是肯定的。
It’s for sure. Sirriidha. Dhugaadha. 是肯定的。
It’s certain. Dhugaadha. 肯定的。Kěndìng de.
It’s a done deal. Waan rawwateedha. 成交了。
It’s as good as done. Waan hojjettameen wal qixa.
这和完成一样好了。Zhè hé wánchéng yīyàng hǎole.
Nothing can go wrong. Dogogorrii hin jiraatu.
没有什么会出错。Méiyǒu shé me huì chūcuò.
What can go wrong? Maaltu jira wanti dogogorramu?
会出什么问题？Huì chū shénme wèntí?
All’s well that ends well. (cliché)
Xumurii bareednan hundii bareeda.
结局好就一切都好。Jiéjú hǎo jiù yīqiè dōu hǎo.
That’s that. What’s to go wrong?
Kun kunumaa. Wantii dogogorramuu hin jiru?
就这样。会出什么问题？
Jiù zhèyàng. Huì chū shénme wèntí?
It’s going to happen. Waan ta’uudha.
这会发生的。Zhè huì fāshēng de.
There’s no doubt in my mind. Shakkii hin qabu.
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我心里毫无疑问。Wǒ xīnlǐ háo wú yíwèn.
There’s not a doubt in my mind.
Shakkiin tokkoo iyyuu na keessa hin jiru.
我心里毫无疑问。
2.6.10. Claiming that something is easy to understand
It’s as plain as day. Kun waan ifaadha. 显而易见。
It’s as clear as day. Kun ifaadha. 简单明了。
It’s as plain as the nose on your face. (jocular)
Baay’ee ifaadha. 非常明显。Fēicháng míngxiǎn.
Do I need to paint you a picture? (informal)
Kanarra akkan ifaa sif godhu barbaada?
这事要我给你说明白呢？
Zhè shì yào wǒ gěi nǐ shuō míngbái ne?
That goes without saying. Kun dubbaachu hin barbaachisu.
这是不言而喻的。Zhè shì bù yán ér yù de.
Any fool can see it. (informal) Doofan iyyuu ni hubaata.
任何傻瓜都能明白。Rènhé shǎguā dōu néng míngbái.
2.6.11. Showing disbelief
I find that hard to believe. Kana amanuun rakkisaadha.
我觉得很难相信。Wǒ juédé hěn nàn xiāngxìn.
Unbelievable. Kan hin amanamne. 以难置信的。
I find that hard to swallow. Amanuun ulfaatadha.
我觉得很难接受。Wǒ juédé hěn nán jiēshòu.
I’ll take that with a grain of salt. (cliché)
Akkuma isaatti nan fudha.
可以接受，别全当真。Kěyǐ jiēshòu, bié quán dàngzhēn.
那我就不客气了。Nà wǒ jiù bù kèqìle.
I remain skeptical. Amma iyyuu hin amanu.
我还是怀疑。Wǒ háishì huáiyí.
I’ll believe it when I see it. Yeroon arguun amana.
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我觉得还是眼见为实。Wǒ juédé háishì yǎnjiàn wéi shí.
You can’t fool me. Nan gowwomsittuu.
你骗不了我的。Nǐ piàn bùliǎo wǒ de.
You can’t pull the wool over my eyes.
你不能蒙骗我。Nǐ bùnéng mēngpiàn wǒ.
I wasn’t born yesterday.
Ani daa’ima miti.
我不是三岁小孩儿。我又不是不懂。
Wǒ bùshì sān suì xiǎo hái'ér. Wǒ yòu bùshì bù dǒng.
2.6.12. Expressing ignorance
Dunno. (informal) Hin beeku. 不知道。
I don’t know. Ani hin beeku. 我不知道。
I don’t know and I don’t care.
Ani hin beekus dhimmas itti hin qabu.
我不知道也不在乎。Wǒ bù zhīdào yě bùzàihū.
I don’t have a clue. Wantan beeku hin qabu.
我一点都不知道。Wǒ yīdiǎn dōu bù zhīdào.
I haven’t a clue. Wantan beeku hin jiru.
我一点也不知道。Wǒ yīdiǎn yě bù zhīdào.
I’m clueless. Wayyu hin beeku. 我不知道。
I don’t have the faintest idea. Wayyu hin beeku.
我一点都不知道。Wǒ yīdiǎn dōu bù zhīdào.
I haven’t the faintest idea. Wanti an beeku hin jiru.
我一点也不知道。Wǒ yīdiǎn yě bù zhīdào.
I haven’t the vaguest notion. / I don’t have the foggiest notion.
Yaada tokkollee hin qabu / beeku.
我一点概念都没有。Wǒ yīdiǎn gàiniàn dōu méiyǒu
Haven’t the foggiest. Homaa hin beeku.
一点也不知道。Yīdiǎn yě bù zhīdào.
Beats me. (informal) Hin beeku. Naaf hin galle.
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我不理解，我不明白。我受不了了。
Wǒ bù lǐjiě, wǒ bù míngbái. Wǒ shòu bùliǎole.
Beats the heck out of me. (informal) Akkamittan beeka.
我怎么知道啊。Wǒ zěnme zhīdào a.
Beats the hell out of me. (mildly vulgar) Akkaminaan beeka.
我咋知道啊。Wǒ zǎ zhīdào a.
Got me beat. (informal) Naf hin galle. 我不明白。
You got me (there). Ulfaata natti ta’ee jira.
你把我问住了。Nǐ bǎ wǒ wèn zhùle.
Got me stumped. (informal).
你把我难倒了。Nǐ bǎ wǒ nán dǎo le.
How would I know? Akkamittin beeka?
我怎么知道。Wǒ zěnme zhīdào.
How should I know? Akkamittin beeka?
我怎么知道。Wǒ zěnme zhīdào.
How the hell should I know? (mildly vulgar)
我怎么会知道。Wǒ zěnme huì zhīdào.
I give up. (informal) Gad dhiiserra.
我放弃了，我没办法了，我认输了。
Wǒ fàngqìle, wǒ méi bànfǎle, wǒ rènshūle.
Who knows? Eenyu beeka? 谁知道呢？
Lord knows. (mild oath) Waaqummaattu beeka.
天知道。Tiānzhīdào.
God only knows. (mild oath) Waaqa qofattu beeka.
只有神知道，只有天知道。
Zhǐyǒu shén zhīdào, zhǐyǒu tiānzhīdào.
2.6.13. Expressing reluctance
I’m afraid not. Hin danda’amuu. 恐怕不行。
‘Fraid not. Hin ta’uu. 不行。
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I’m afraid so. Akkasumaadha. 恐怕是这样。
‘Fraid so. Hin danda’u. 恐怕是这样。
If I must. (formal) Akkas ta’uun qaba.
如果我必须的话 Rúguǒ wǒ bìxū dehuà.
Well, if I have to. Akkas ta’uu qaba tannaan.
如果有必要的话 Rúguǒ yǒu bìyào dehuà
Well, if you insist. Akkas malee hin ta’uu yoo jettes
好吧，如果你坚持的话。Hǎo ba, rúguǒ nǐ jiānchí dehuà.
Well, if you really think so. Egaa, akkas yaada tannaan
如果你真的那么想的话。
Rúguǒ nǐ zhēn dì nàme xiǎng dehuà.
Well, if you really want me to.
Tolee, yoo ati dhugummaa barbaada tannaan.
好吧，如果你真的想让我这么做的话。
Hǎo ba, rúguǒ nǐ zhēn de xiǎng ràng wǒ zhème zuò dehuà.
I guess I have no choice in the matter.
Akkan yaadutti filaanno bira hin qabu.
我想在这件事上我别无选择。
Wǒ xiǎng zài zhè jiàn shì shàng wǒ bié wú xuǎnzé.
It doesn’t sound like I have a choice.
Filaanno wantan qabu natti hin fakkaatu.
听起来我别无选择。Tīng qǐlái wǒ bié wú xuǎnzé.
We’ve got no choice. We have no alternative. Filaanno hin qabu.
我们别无选择。Wǒmen bié wú xuǎnzé.
There’s no alternative. Filaannon hin jiru.
别无选择。Bié wú xuǎnzé.
I’d rather not. Hin ta’u. Hin danda’amu. 我宁愿不要。
I’d rather die. Yoon du’ee naaf wayya. 我宁愿去死。
I’d sooner die. Dafeen du’a. 我宁愿去死。
Never in a thousand years. Gonkummaa hin ta’u.
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绝对不行。Juéduì bùxíng.
Not in a million years. Taasumaa hin ta’u. 绝对不会。
Over my dead body. (informal)
Yoon du’ee illee hin ta’u. Gonkummaa hin yaadin.
除非我死了，想都别想，我死也不会同意。
Chúfēi wǒ sǐle, xiǎng dōu bié xiǎng, wǒ sǐ yě bù huì tóngyì.
2.6.14. Making the bests of a bad situation
That’s life. Kun jireenya. 这就是生活。
That’s the way life is. Jireenyi akkasuma.
生活就是这样。Shēnghuó jiùshì zhèyàng.
That’s how it goes. Kun haalla inni ittin deemudha.
事情就是这样。Shìqíng jiùshì zhèyàng.
That’s the way it goes. Haalli akkasuma.
事情就是这样。Shìqíng jiùshì zhèyàng.
That’s the way the ball bounces. (cliché)
Jireenyi dhala nama akkasuma.
人生岂能常如愿，命运从来坎坷多。
Rénshēng qǐ néng cháng rúyuàn. Mìngyùn cónglái kǎnkě duō
That’s the way the cookie crumbles. (cliché)
Wanti kam iyyuu akkasumas.
事情就是这样了。Shìqíng jiùshì zhèyàngle.
Things could be worse. Kanarra hamaa ta’uu ni danda’aa.
情况可能会更糟。Qíngkuàng kěnéng huì gèng zāo.
It’s not as bad as all that. Hagaas maraa yaara miti.
事情没有那么糟。Shìqíng méiyǒu nàme zāo.
Look on the bright(er) side. (cliché) Gara gaarii ta’ee ilaali.
看开一点。看好的一面。
Kàn kāi yīdiǎn. Kànhǎo de yīmiàn.
Make the best of it. Hangaa dandeessu yaalli.
随遇而安。Suíyù'ér'ān. 尽力而为。
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Half a loaf is better than none. (cliché)
Kan jiree irraa kan jiru wayya.
小点儿总比没有好。Xiǎo diǎn er zǒng bǐ méiyǒu hǎo.
It’s always darkest before dawn. (cliché)
Yeroo barri’uuf jedhu ni dukkana’aa.
黎明前的黑暗。Límíng qián de hēi'àn.
Every cloud has a silver lining. (cliché)
Dukkanni kam iyyuu ni barri’aa.
黑暗中总有一丝光明。
hēi'àn zhōng zǒng yǒu yīsī guāngmíng
When life hands you lemons, make lemonade. (cliché)
Jireenyi yeroo sitti dhangaga’u, ati immoo mi’eeffadhu.
要随遇而安，苦中作乐。Yào suíyù'ér'ān, kǔ zhōng zuòlè
It’s the best we can do under the circumstances.
Yeroo ulfaatutti kan dandeessu ol hojjedhu.
在这种情况下，这是我们能做的最好的了。
Zài zhè zhǒng qíngkuàng xià, zhè shì wǒmen néng zuò de
zuì hǎo dele.
I wish we could do more. Kan ol nan hojjedha jedhen yaada.
我希望我能做得更多。
Wǒ xīwàng wǒ néng zuò dé gèng duō.
You did the best you could. Kan dandeessu hojjete jirta.
你已经尽力了。Nǐ yǐjīng jìnlìle.
You did the best that could be expected.
Wanta sirra eegamuu rawwattee jirta.
你尽了最大的努力。Nǐ jǐnle zuìdà de nǔlì.
You get an A for effort. Gatti dadhabdee argattee jirta.
你的努力得到了回报。Nǐ de nǔlì dédàole huíbào.
The important thing is that you tried.
Wanti guddaan yaallu keedha.
最重要的事你尽力了。Zuì zhòngyào de shì nǐ jìnlìle.
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Winning isn’t everything. (cliché)
Injifachuun waan hundaa miti.
胜利不代表一切。Shènglì bù dàibiǎo yīqiè.
You can’t win them all. (cliché)
Hundaa mo’uu dhiisuu ni dandeessa.
不可能凡事都成功。人不可能一直走运。
Bù kěnéng fánshì dōu chénggōng. Rén bù kěnéng yīzhí zǒuyùn.
It’s not whether you win or lose, it’s how you play the game.
(cliché) Kun mo’uufi ma’amuu kee miti, akkamitti akka ati
taphaattudha malee. 输赢不重要，重要的是你玩儿游戏的方
式。Shūyíng bù chóng yào, zhòngyào de shì nǐ wán er yóuxì de f
āngshì.
You made a noble effort.
Yaali baay’ee cimaa ta’ee gaggesittee jirta.
你做出了最大的努力。Nǐ zuò chūle zuìdà de nǔlì.
Truth is stranger than fiction. (cliché)
Dhugaan asoosama caala hin beekamu.
事实比幻想更离奇。Shìshí bǐ huànxiǎng gèng líqí.
It was just one of those things. (cliché)
Kunis akkuma warra kanitti.
一丘之貉。Yīqiūzhīháo.
(Don’t ask why;) it just is. （maaliif hin jedhin） akkasuma.
(不要问为什么）就是这样。
(Bùyào wèn wèishéme) jiùshì zhèyàng.
Why ask why? (informal) Maaliif gaafata maalii?
为什么要问为什么？Wèishéme yào wèn wèishéme?
Who am I to question? Eenyun haa gaafadhu?
我该问谁？Wǒ gāi wèn shéi?
It’s for the best. (cliché) Kunis waan gaariifi.
这是为了最好事。Zhè shì wèile zuì hǎo shì.
It’s all for the best. (cliché) Kun hundii waan gaariifidha.
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这一切都是为了最好事。
Zhè yīqiè dōu shì wèile zuì hǎoshì.
When God closes a door, he opens a window. (cliché)
Balballii yoo cufamee foddaan sif banama.
天无绝人之路。Tiān wú jué rén zhī lù
Don’t let it get you down. Kanan hin mo’amiin.
不要为此灰心丧气。Bùyào wèi cǐ huīxīn sàngqì
Keep your chin up! (cliché) Boquu kee hin busiin.
抬起头来。Tái qǐtóu lái.
Chin up! Cheer up! Jabaadhu. Cimii, hin gaddiin.
振奋起来，振作起来。Zhènfèn qǐlái, zhènzuò qǐlái.
Keep a stiff upper lip. (cliché) Hin ulfaataa hin jedhin.
不叫苦，不服输。Bù jiàokǔ, bù fúshū.
Grin and bear it. (cliché) Seequun keessa darbii.
笑着忍受吧，默默忍受。
Xiàozhe rěnshòu ba, mòmò rěnshòu.
Grit your teeth. (cliché) Cininadhuu jabaadhu.
咬紧牙根渡难关，下定决心。
Xiàdìng juéxīn; yǎo jǐn yágēn dù nánguān
Take it in stride. (cliché) Sodaa malee mormii.
从容面对。Cóngróng miàn duì.
Roll with the punches. (cliché)
Wantaa ulfaataa sodaa malee injifaadhu.
度过一道道难关，克服一系列难关。
Dùguò yīdào dao nánguān, kèfú yī xìliè nánguān.
Accept your fate. Hiree kee fudhadhuu.
接受你的命运吧。Jiēshòu nǐ de mìngyùn ba.
You’ve made your bed; now lie in it. (cliché)
Kan facaaste hamaata.
自作自受，自食自果。
Zìzuòzìshòu.，zìshíqíguǒ.
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If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again. (cliché)
Takkatti hin milkooftu tannaan irra dedeebi’I yaalli.
一次不成，再试一次。Yīcì bùchéng, zài shì yīcì.
The important thing is to learn from your mistakes.
Wantii guddaan dogogorraa keerraa baraachudha.
最重要的是从错误中吸取教训。
Zuì zhòngyào de shì cóng cuòwù zhōng xīqǔ jiàoxùn.
The third time’s the charm. (cliché)
Wantii kamiyyuu sadiirra hin darbu.
事不过三。Shì bùguò sān
I’m between a rock and a hard place. (cliché)
Karaa hundaan rakkisaadha.
左右为难。Zuǒyòu wéinán.
You’re damned if you do. (mildly vulgar)
Hojjetee tannaan hojii kee argate.
你做了就该死，活该。Nǐ zuòle jiù gāisǐ, huógāi.
2.6.15. Blaming something on fate or destiny
It was destiny. Kun hireedha. 这就是命运。
It was destined to happen. Kun akka ta’uuf hireedha.
这是注定要发生的。Zhè shì zhùdìng yào fāshēng de.
It’s your fate. Kun hiree kedha.
这是你的宿命，命运。Zhè shì nǐ de sùmìng, mìngyùn.
It was fated to happen. Kun akka uumamuf hireedha.
注定会发生的。Zhùdìng huì fāshēng de.
It’s fate. Kun hireedha. 这是宿命。Zhè shì sùmìng.
It’s the cruel hand of fate. Kun harka abarsa hireetti.
这是命运的残酷之手。
Zhè shì mìngyùn de cánkù zhī shǒu.
It’s God’s will. Kun fedhaa Waaqatti.
这是上帝的旨意。Zhè shì shàngdì de zhǐyì.
It’s all in God’s plan. Kun karoora waaqatti.
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这是都是上帝的计划。Zhè shì dōu shì shàngdì de jìhuà.
It was meant to be. Wanumaa ta’uu qabudha.
命中注定的。Mìngzhòng zhùdìng de.
Que sera, sera. (Spanish) = Whatever will be, will be.
Kan ta’uu inumma ta’a.
将来会怎么样就怎么样。Jiānglái huì zěnme yàng jiù
zěnme yàng. 世事不可强求。Shìshì bùkě qiǎngqiú.
Don’t fight it. Ittin wal hin mormiin.
不要反抗。Bùyào fǎnkàng.
You can’t fight it. Loluu hin qabdu.
你不能反抗。Nǐ bùnéng fǎnkàng.
There’s nothing you can do about it.
Wanti ati gochuu dandeessu hin jiru.
你对此无能为力。Nǐ duì cǐ wúnéngwéilì.
2.6.16. Knowing something after the fact
I should have known. Dursee beekun qaba ture.
我早该知道的。Wǒ zǎo gāi zhīdào de.
I should have known better. Dursee sirriitti beekun qaba ture.
我早应该更清楚。Wǒ zǎo yīnggāi gèng qīngchǔ.
If I (only) knew then what I know now . . .
If I (just) knew then what I know now . . .
If I’d known then what I know now . . .
Wantaan amma beeku osoon dursee beeke ta’ee…
早知今日，何必当初。Zǎo zhī jīnrì, hébì dāngchū.
If only I could turn back the hands of time.
Osoon yeroo duubaatti deebisa ta’ee.
但愿我能让时间倒流。
Dàn yuàn wǒ néng ràng shíjiān dàoliú.
If I could only turn back the clock.
Osummaan yeroo duubatti deebisa ta’ee.
要是我能把时间倒流就好了。
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Yàoshi wǒ néng bǎ shíjiān dàoliú jiù hǎole.
It’s easy to be wise after the event.
Erga waraabessi darbee sareen dutti.
事后聪明。Shìhòu cōngmíng.
That’s easy to say in hindsight.
Erga wanti tokko darbee hubaachun salphaadha.
乐观偏见。Lèguān piānjiàn.
2.6.17. Expressing indifference
I don’t care. An dhimmattin qabu. 我不在乎。
I couldn’t care less. Xiqqummaa illee dhimma itti hin qabu.
我一点也不在乎。Wǒ yīdiǎn yě bùzàihū.
I could care less. (informal) Dhimma itti hin qabu.
我可不在乎。Wǒ kě bùzàihū.
I don’t give a damn. (mildly vulgar) Like I give a damn. (mildly
vulgar) Dhimma koo miti. 我才不管呢。
It doesn’t matter to me. Wayyu natti hin fakkatu.
这对我来说没关系。Zhè duì wǒ lái shuō méiguānxì.
Really doesn’t matter to me. Dhugaa kun dhimma koo miti.
我真的不在乎。Wǒ zhēn de bùzàihū.
Makes no difference to me. Waan addaa ta’ee natti hin jiru.
对我来说没什么区别。Duì wǒ lái shuō méishénme qūbié.
Makes me no difference. (informal) Naaf addaa miti.
对我来说没什么区别。Duì wǒ lái shuō méishénme qūbié.
Makes me no nevermind. (folksy)
Wanta na dhiphisuu hin qabu.
这让我不必担心。Zhè ràng wǒ bùbì dānxīn.
Makes no nevermind to me. (folksy)
Wanta na yaadessu hin qabu.
对我来说没什么大不了的。
Duì wǒ lái shuō méishénme dàbùliǎo de.
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Either way. Kan fedhee maaf hin tanne. 不管怎样。
Whichever. Kan fedhee. 无论哪个，如何
Whatever. Kamiyyuu 无论什么
Six of one, half (a) dozen of the other. (informal)
Walakkaa isa. 半斤八两，不相上下。
Up to you. Akka fedhaa kee, wanta barbaade.
由你决定，随便你。
Whatever you prefer. Kan ati jaallate hundaa. 你喜欢什么都行。
It’s not important. Kun barbaachisa miti. 这并不重要。
I guess so. Akkan yaadutti. 我想是的。
I guess. Jedhaan yaada. 我想是吧。
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Chapter -3
3. Polite Encounters
3.1. Prefaces
3.1.1. A preface to asking questions
Excuse me . . . Dhiifama. 打扰一下。
Pardon me . . . Dhiifama 不好意思。
Excuse me for asking . . . Dhiifama 请问…
If you don’t mind my asking . . .
Gaaffi gaafachuu nan danda’aa?
如果你不介意的话….
It’s none of my business, but . . .
Kun dhimma koo miti garuu…
这不关我的事，但是…
3.1.2. A preface to making questions – formal
If I may say so . . . Akkas jechuu nan danda’a
如果我可以这么是说… Rúguǒ wǒ kěyǐ zhème shì shuō…
If I may be so bold . . . Akkas jechuun ni ta’a tannaan….
如果我可以这么大胆… Rúguǒ wǒ kěyǐ zhème dàdǎn…
If it’s okay with you . . . Sif ni ta’aa tannaan…
如果你同意的话… Rúguǒ nǐ tóngyì dehuà…
If it pleases you . . . Si gammachisaa tannaan…
如果你喜欢的话… Rúguǒ nǐ xǐhuān dehuà…
It is a pleasure to inform you that . . .
… si beeksisuuf baay’een gammada.
很高兴通知你…. Hěn gāoxìng tōngzhī nǐ….
We regret to inform you that . . .
… si beeksisuu keenyaf baay’ee gaddinna.
我们很遗憾的通知你… Wǒmen hěn yíhàn de tōngzhī nǐ…
As you are aware . . . …akkuma beektan /beektu.
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正如你所知 Zhèngrú nǐ suǒ zhī
As you are no doubt aware . . .
Akkuma isiin / ati beektan / beektu.
你肯定知道。Nǐ kěndìng zhīdào.
As you know . . . Akkuma beektan/ beektu.
如你所知。Rú nǐ suǒ zhī.
As you might know . . . Ni beektu ta’aa. 你可能知道。
As you may already know . . . Akkuma beektan.
你可能已经知道。Nǐ kěnéng yǐjīng zhīdào.
3.1.3. A preface to making a statement – informal
(To make a) long story short . . . Dubbii dheeraa gababsuun.
长话短说。Chánghuàduǎnshuō.
What I would like to say is . . . Wantaan jechuu barbaadu….
我想说的是… Wǒ xiǎng shuō de shì…
But I just wanted to say . . . garuu wantaa an jechuu barbaadu…
但我只想说… Dàn wǒ zhǐ xiǎng shuō…
By the way . . . Osumma haasofnu…
顺便说一句，对了… Shùnbiàn shuō yījù, duìle…
If you ask me . . . Osoo na gaafate…
如果你问我… Rúguǒ nǐ wèn wǒ…
Not that it’s any of my business . . . Kun dhimma koo miti.
这不关我的事… Zhè bù guān wǒ de shì…
3.1.4. A preface making a statement – very polite
As you requested . . . Akkuma isiin barbaadanitti
按照您的要求 Ànzhào nǐn de yāoqiú
For your convenience . . . Akka isiniif toluuf.
为了您的方便… Wèile nǐn de fāngbiàn…
We apologize for the inconvenience . . .
Mijaata ta’uu dhisuf dhiifama isiin gaafanna.
抱歉造成不便，敬请谅解。
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Bàoqiàn zàochéng bùbiàn, jìng qǐng liàngjiě.
With your safety in mind . . . Nageenya keessan yaada galchuun...
考虑到您的安全。Kǎolǜ dào nín de ānquán.
With your comfort in mind . . .
考虑到您的安慰。Kǎolǜ dào nín de ānwèi
3.2. Communication Barrier
3.2.1. Asking if someone speak particular languages
Do you speak French? Afaan faransaayii ni dubbataa?
你会说法语吗？Nǐ huì shuō fǎyǔ ma?
French = Spanish, German, Russian, Italian, etc.
Do you know any French? Afaan faransaayii beekta?
你懂法语吗？Nǐ dǒng fǎyǔ ma?
Do you speak any French? Afaan faransaayii ni beekta?
你会说法语吗？Nǐ huì shuō fǎyǔ ma?
3.2.2. When you don’t speak particular languages
I’m sorry. I don’t understand. Dhiifama, an hin beeku.
对不起，我不明白。Duìbùqǐ, wǒ bù míngbái.
I’m sorry. I don’t speak French.
French = Spanish, German, Russian, Italian, etc.
Dhiifama, ani afaan faransaayii beeke hin dubbadhu.
对不起，我不会说法语。wǒ bù huì shuō fǎyǔ.
I’m sorry. My French isn’t very good.
Dhiifama, afaan faransaayii baay’ee hin beeku.
对不起，我的法语不太好。wǒ de fǎyǔ bù tài hǎo.
I only speak a little French.
Afaan faransaayii xiqqoon danda’aa.
我只会说一点法语。Wǒ zhǐ huì shuō yīdiǎn fǎyǔ.
3.2.3. When you don understand what was said
Pardon me? Dhiifama. 不好意思，对不起。
Excuse me? Dhiifama. 打扰一下。
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Again, (please). I’m sorry? Dhiifama mee dabali.
对不起，再来一次。Duìbùqǐ, zàilái yīcì.
I’m sorry. I missed that. => missed that = failed to hear what was
said Dhiifama, walii hin barree. Hin hubaanne.
不好意思，我没听到，你说什么。
Bù hǎoyìsi, wǒ méi tīng dào, nǐ shuō shénme.
I didn’t quite get that. => to get that = to hear or understand what
was said Maal akka ta’ee naaf hin galle.
我不太明白。Wǒ bù tài míngbái.
What did you say? Maal jette? 你说什么？
I’m sorry. What? Dhiifama, maal jette? 不好意思，什么？
What? Maal? 什么？
What was that? Maal inni? 那是什么？
Come again. (folksy)
Irra deebi’I dubbadhu. 请再说一遍。
Could you please repeat yourself?
Maaloo irra deebi’I dubbadhu.
请你再说一遍好吗？Qǐng nǐ zàishuō yībiàn hǎo ma?
Could you please repeat that?
Mee irra deebite dubbaachu ni dandeessa?
能请你再说一遍吗？Néng qǐng nǐ zàishuō yībiàn ma?
3.2.4. When you do not understand what a foreign visitor has said
I don’t understand you. Si hubaacha hin jiru.
我不明白你的意思。Wǒ bù míngbái nǐ de yìsi.
I can’t understand you. Si hin hubaadhu.
我听不懂。Wǒ tīng bù dǒng.
I can’t hear you. Ani si hin dhaga’u.
我听不见你。Wǒ tīng bùjiàn.
Please speak more slowly. Maaloo suuta dubbaadhu.
请你说慢一点。Qǐng nǐ shuō màn yīdiǎn.
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Could you please speak slower?
Maaloo suuta-suutaan dubbachuu ni dandeessa?
你能说慢一点吗？Nǐ néng shuō màn yīdiǎn ma?
Could you please speak louder?
Maaloo ol kaaste dubbachuu ni dandeessa?
请你大声说好吗？Qǐng nǐ dàshēng shuō hǎo ma?
Could you write it down, please?
Maaloo barreessuu ni dandeessa?
请你写下来好吗？Qǐng nǐ xiě xiàlái hǎo ma?
Please write it out. Maaloo barreessi.
请写下来。Qǐng xiě xiàlái.
Could you spell that? Qubeessuu ni dandeessa?
你能拼一下吗？Nǐ néng pīn yīxià ma?
3.3. Telling Time
3.3.1. Asking the time of day
What time is it? Sa’aatiin meeqa ta’eerra? 几点了？
Could you tell me what time it is?
Sa’aatiin meeqa akka ta’ee natti himu ni dandeessa?
你能告诉我现在几点了？
Nǐ néng gàosù wǒ xiànzài jǐ diǎnle?
Could you please tell me the time?
Sa’aatii natti himu ni dandeessa?
你能告诉我现在几点了吗？
Nǐ néng gàosù wǒ xiànzài jǐ diǎnle ma?
Could you give me the time?
Yeroo naaf kennu ni dandeessa?
你能给我点时间吗？Nǐ néng gěi wǒ diǎn shíjiān ma?
Do you know what time it is?
Yeroon meeqa akka ta’ee beekta?
你知道现在几点了？Nǐ zhīdào xiànzài jǐ diǎnle?
Do you know the time? Sa’aatiin meeqa beekta?
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你知道几点了？Nǐ zhīdào jǐ diǎnle?
Do you happen to have the time? Sa’aatii qabatee jirta?
你戴表了吗？Nǐ dài biǎole ma?
Do you have the correct time? Sa’aatii sirrii qabda?
你有准确的时间吗？Nǐ yǒu zhǔnquè de shíjiān ma?
Do you have the time? Yeroo qabatee?
你有时间吗？Nǐ yǒu shíjiān ma?
Could I bother you for the time?
Dhiifama, yeroo meeqa ta’ee jiraa?
打扰一下，几点了？Dǎrǎo yīxià, jǐ diǎnle?
3.3.2. The time is 12:00 o’clock
It’s twelve noon. Guyyaa walakkaa sa’aatii 12.
现在是中午十二点。Xiànzài shì zhōngwǔ shí'èr diǎn.
It’s noon. Guyyaa walakkaa.
现在是中午。Xiànzài shì zhōngwǔ.
It’s twelve midnight. Halkan walakkaa sa’aatii 12.
现在是午夜十二点。Xiànzài shì wǔyè shí'èr diǎn.
It’s midnight. Halkan walakkaa.
现在是午夜。Xiànzài shì wǔyè.
3.3.3. The time on the hour
It’s three. Sa’aatii sadii. 三点了。Sān diǎnle.
It’s three o’clock Sa’aatii sadii ta’eerra.
现在是三点了。Xiànzài shì sān diǎn le.
It’s three o’clock sharp. Sa’aatii guutuu ta’eerra.
现在是三点钟。Xiànzài shì sān diǎn zhōng.
It’s three o’clock on the dot. Sa’aatii sadii mataarra.
It’s three o’clock on the nose. (informal)
Amma sa’aatii sadii guutuu ta’eerra.
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It’s exactly three o’clock. Sa’aatii sadii mataa ishee irra.
现在正是三点钟。Xiànzài zhèng shì sān diǎn zhōng.
3.3.4. The time is approximate
It’s almost three. Sa’aatii sadii ta’uuf.
快三点了。Kuài sān diǎnle.
It’s not quite three. Sa’aatii sadii hin tanne.
还不到三点。Hái bù dào sān diǎn.
It’s just after three. Amma sa’sstii sadii irraa darbe.
三点刚过。Sān diǎn gāngguò.
3.3.5. The time is ten minutes past the hour
It’s ten after three. Sa’aatii sadiif daqiiqaa kudhan.
现在是三点十分。Xiànzài shì sān diǎn shí fēn.
It’s ten after. Daqiiqaa kudhan darbee jira.
三点过了十分种。Sān diǎnguòle shífēn zhǒng.
It’s ten minutes after three.
Sa’aatii sadiif daqiiqaa kudhan darbe jira.
现在是三点过十分钟。
Xiànzài shì sān diǎnguò shí fēnzhōng.
It’s ten past three. Sa’aatii sadiif daqiiqaa kudhan.
现在是三点十分。Xiànzài shì sān diǎn shí fēn.
It’s ten past. Sa’aa sadiif daqiiqaa kudhan.
三点十分种。Sān diǎnguò shí fēnzhōng.
3.3.6. The time is fifteen or thirty minutes past the hour
It’s three-fifteen. Sa’aatii sadiif daqiiqaa kudha shan.
三点十五分。Sān diǎn shíwǔ fēn.
It’s a quarter past three. Sadiif daqiiqaa kudha shan.
三点一刻。Sān diǎn yī kè.
It’s three-thirty. Sa’aatii sadiif daqiiqaa soddoma.
三点半。三点三十分。Sān diǎn bàn. Sān diǎn sānshí fēn.
It’s half-past three. Sa’aatii sadiif walakkaa. 三点半。
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It’s half past. Sadiif walakkaa. 三点半。
3.3.7. The time is forty minutes past the hour
It’s three forty. Diigdama hir’u. 三点四十分。
It’s twenty of four. Diigdama hir’u afur.
四点差二十分钟。Sì diǎnchā èrshí fēnzhōng.
It’s twenty to four. Sa’aatii afur diigdama hanqu.
四点差二十分。Sì diǎnchā èrshí fēn.
It’s twenty till four. Sa’aatii afur ta’uuf diigdama hir’ata.
It’s twenty minutes till four.
Sa’aatii afur ta’uuf daqiiqaa diigdama hafa.
3.3.8. The time is forty five minutes past the hour
It’s three forty-five. Sa’aatii sadiif daqiiqaa afurtami shan.
三点四十五分钟。Sān diǎn sìshíwǔ fēnzhōng.
It’s quarter to four. Afur ta’uuf daqiiqaa kudhaa shan hafa.
四点差一刻。Sì diǎnchā yīkè.
It’s a quarter of four. Afur ta’uuf daqiiqaa kudhaa shan hir’ata.
It’s quarter to. Afuur ta’uuf rubbii hir’ata.
It’s a quarter of. Afuur ta’uuf rubbii hir’ata.
It’s a quarter till. Afur ta’uuf daqiiqaa kudhaa shan hir’ata.
It’s a quarter till four. Afur ta’uuf daqiiqaa kudhaa shan hir’ata.
3.3.9. The time is fifty minutes past the hour
It’s ten minutes to four. Afur ta’uuf daqiiqaa kudhan hir’u.
四点差十分种。Sì diǎnchā shí fēnzhōng.
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It’s ten to four. Afur ta’uuf daqiiqaa kudhaan hir’ata.
现在差 10 分钟四点。Xiànzài chà 10 fēnzhōng sì diǎn.
It’s ten to. Kudhan hir’u afur.
差十分钟四点。Chà shí fēnzhōng sì diǎn.
It’s ten of. Kudhan hanqu afur ta’uuf.
It’s ten till. Afur guutuuf kudhan hir’u.
3.3.10. When a timepiece is not accurate
Is this clock right? Sa’aatiin kun sirriidha moo?
这个手表是对的吗？Zhège shǒubiǎo shì duì de ma?
I think my watch needs a new battery.
Sa’aatiin koo dhagaa bira barbaada.
我的手表需要一块新电池。
Wǒ de shǒubiǎo xūyào yīkuài xīn diànchí.
This clock is fast. Yeroo kun baay’ee ariifata.
这个时钟快了。Zhège shízhōng kuàile.
This clock is slow. Yeroon kun baay’ee boodatti hafa.
这个时钟很慢。Zhège shízhōng hěn màn.
My watch is running fast. Yeroon koo baay’ee ariifata.
我的手表快了。Wǒ de shǒubiǎo kuàile.
My watch has been running slow.
Yeroon koo baay’ee boodatti hafa.
我的手表走慢。Wǒ de shǒubiǎo zǒu mànle.
3.4. General pleasantries
3.4.1. When your moving about may bother someone
Excuse me. Dhiifama 不好意思。
Pardon me. Dhiifama 对不起。
Coming through. Nan darba mee. 让路
I beg your pardon. Maaloo irra deebi’i. 请再说一遍。
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Could I get by, please? Darbuu nan danda’a? 我能过去吗？
Watch your feet! Ilaalacha ejjeedhu! 小心脚下。
3.4.2. Offering to let someone enter in front of you
After you. Ati dursii. 你先请。
Ladies first. Durbii dursa. 女士优先。
You first. Ati dursii. 你先来。
Age before beauty. (jocular cliché) Angafni dursii.
老人优先。Lǎorén yōuxiān.
Be my guest. Akka fetee, Akka fedhaa kee!
请便，别客气。Qǐng biàn, bié kèqì.
3.4.3. Apologizing to someone you have bothered
I’m sorry. Dhiifama. 对不起。
Forgive me. Dhiifama. 原谅我。
Sorry to be a bother. Dhiifama si / isiin jeeqerra. 抱歉打扰了。
Sorry to be a pest. Dhiifama si jeeqerra. 不好意思，打扰了。
Sorry for the inconvenience.
Dhiifama akka isiniif hin mijaanne gonnerra.
很抱歉给您带来不便。Hěn bàoqiàn gěi nín dài lái bu biàn.
Please forgive the inconvenience.
Dhiifama akka hin mijaanne gonnerra.
请见谅给您带来不便。
Qǐng jiànliàng gěi nín dài lái bu biàn.
3.4.4. Returning someone’s good wishes
Same to you. Akkuma kee. 和你一样。
Likewise. Akkuma tokko. 同样的。
Likewise, I’m sure. (cliché) Akkuma tokko sirriidha.
同样，我确信。Tóngyàng, wǒ quèxìn.
Thank you. Galatooma/ Galatoomi. 非常感谢。
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3.4.5. Agreering to something – polite
Of course. Sirriitti. 当然。
Be happy to. Nan gammada. 乐意的。
Fine. Gaarii, Shaggaa. 美好的。好。
Great. Baay’ee gaarii. 太棒了。
Super. (slang) Olaanaa. 超级的，极好的。
3.4.5. Explaining that you will attend to someone soon
I’ll be there in just a moment. Amman achii ga’a.
我马上就到。Wǒ mǎshàng jiù dào.
Be there in a minute. Daqiiqaattin achii ga’a.
马上到。Mǎshàng dào.
I’ll be right with you. Ariittin nan dhufa.
我马上就来。Wǒ mǎshàng jiù lái.
I’ll be with you in a moment. Ammuman dhufa.
我一会儿就来。Wǒ yīhuǐ'er jiù lái.
3.4.6. Asking for permission to leave place – polite
Could I be excused?
Deemu nan danda’aa? Deemu naf eyyamtaa?
我可以离开一下吗？Wǒ kěyǐ líkāi yīxià ma？
May I be excused?
Dhiifama deemu nan danda’aa?
我可以先告退吗？Wǒ kěyǐ xiān gàotuì ma?
Might I be excused? (formal)
Dhiifama ani deemu?
我失陪一下可以吗？Wǒ shīpéi yīxià kěyǐ ma?
3.4.7. Saying good-bye – polite
Good afternoon. Akkam oltaan? 下午好！
Good evening. Akkam oltan? 晚上好！
Good morning. Akkam bultan? 上午好！
Good day. Guyyaa gaarii! 再会！
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Good night. Halkan gaarii! 晚安！
Have a nice day. Guyyaa gaarii isiniif haa ta’u.
祝你有个美好的一天。Zhù nǐ yǒu gè měihǎo de yītiān.
Good-bye. Nagaa ta’i! 再见！
Bye. Nagaatti! 再见！
Bye-bye. Nagaatti! 再见！
Farewell. Nagaatti! 再会！
Goodbye until later. Nagaatti, booda wal argina.
待一会儿就！Dài yīhuǐ'er jiù!
Goodbye until next time. Nagaatti, yeroo bira wal argina.
下次再见！Xià cì zàijiàn!
Goodbye for now. Nagaa ta’i! 再见！
3.4.8. Saying good-bye – informal
So long. Nagaatti. 再见！
Ta-ta. Nagaatti. 回见！
Farewell. Nagaatti. 再会！
Cheerio. Nagaatti. 回头见！
See you later. Booda wal argina. 过会儿见！
See you later, alligator. (slang) Boodan si arga.
回头见！Huítóu jiàn!
Later, gator. (slang) Boode wal argina. 再会呀！
Later. Booda wal argina. 再会有期！
I’ll try to catch you later. Boodan sin arga.
待会儿见!Dài huì er jiàn!
I’ll catch you later. Booda sin arga.
一会儿见！Yīhuǐ'er jiàn!
Catch you later. Booda si arga. 一会儿见！
See you. Nagaatti. 回见！
See ya. Nagaatti! 再见罗！
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See you around. Sin arga. 一会儿见。
Take care. Of eggaadhu! 保重！
3.5. Business Pleasantries
3.5.1. Announcing your arrival for an appointment
Mr. Beresa to see Dr. Tolasa.
An, obbo Beresa Dr. Tolasa dubbisuun dhufe.
我是贝雷萨先生来见托莱萨博士。
Wǒ shì bèi léi sà xiānshēng lái jiàn tuō lái sà bóshì.
I’m here to see Mrs. Bula. Obbo Bula dubbisuun dhufe.
我是来看布拉先生。Wǒ shì lái kàn bù lā xiānshēng.
Could you please tell Mr. Beresa I’m here?
Obbo Barasaatti naf himi mee dhufeen jira.
你能告诉贝雷萨先生我在这里吗？
Nǐ néng gàosù bèi léi sà xiānshēng wǒ zài zhèlǐ ma?
I have an appointment with Mrs. Bona.
Addee Boontuu wajjin beellaman qaba.
我和博纳夫人有个约会。
Wǒ hébó nà fūrén yǒu gè yuēhuì.
3.5.2. Being assertive – polite
I’d like my check now, please.
Maaloo, amma naga’ee koon barbaada.
我现在要结账，拜托了！
Wǒ xiànzài yào jiézhàng, bàituōle!
I’d like my payment now, please.
Maaloo, kafaltii koo amman barbaada.
我现在要我的付款。Wǒ xiànzài yào wǒ de fùkuǎn
No, I don’t think so. => I totally reject your assertion.
Miti, natti hin fakkaatu.
不，我不这么认为。Bù, wǒ bù zhème rènwéi.
Excuse me? => Did you really say what I think you said?
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Maal jette? 啥？什么？Shà? Shénme?
May I have your name, please?
Maaloo, maqaan kee enyuu?
请问你叫什么名字？Qǐngwèn nǐ jiào shénme míngzì?
I’d like to speak to the manager.
Hoogganaatti dubbaachun barbaada.
我想和经理讲话。Wǒ xiǎng hé jīnglǐ jiǎnghuà.
I’d like to speak to your supervisor.
Hoogganaa kee dubbisuun barbaada.
我想和你的主管谈谈。
Wǒ xiǎng hé nǐ de zhǔguǎn tán tán.
I intend to stand my ground.
Ani yaada koo irrattimurt’aadha.
我打算坚持我的观念。
Wǒ dǎsuàn jiānchí wǒ de guānniàn
I’m not leaving until I’m satisfied.
Hangaan gammadaa ta’uufi asi hin deemu.
在我满意之前，我不会离开。
Zài wǒ mǎnyì zhīqián wǒ bù huì líkāi.
3.6. Apologizing and taking responsibility
3.6.1. Sincere apologies
Sorry. Dhiifama! 对不起。
So sorry. Baay’ee dhiifama! 非常抱歉。
I’m (so) very sorry. Baay’ee tokko dhiifama. 我非常抱歉。
I’m (so) sorry. Baay’ee dhiifama. 我很抱歉。
I’m really sorry. Dhugaa, baay’ee dhiifama.
我真的很抱歉。Wǒ zhēn de hěn bàoqiàn.
I’m terribly sorry. Baay’ee baay’ee dhiifama.
非常抱歉。Fēicháng bàoqiàn.
I’m sincerely sorry. Baay’een gaddaa. Baay’ee dhifama.
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我真的很抱歉。Wǒ zhēn de hěn bàoqiàn.
I apologize. Dhiifama. 我道歉。
My apologies. (formal) Dhiifama. 抱歉。
My sincere apologies. (formal) Dhugaa dhiifama.
我真诚的道歉。Wǒ zhēnchéng de dàoqiàn.
You have my sincere apology. (formal)
Baay’e tokkoo dhiifaman sin jedha.
我真诚地向你道歉。Wǒ zhēnchéng dì xiàng nǐ dàoqiàn.
Please accept my apology. Dhiifama naaf godhi.
请接受我的道歉。Qǐng jiēshòu wǒ de dàoqiàn.
Please accept my apologies. Maaloo dhiifama naaf godhi.
请接受我的道歉吧！Qǐng jiēshòu wǒ de dàoqiàn ba!
Please accept my heartfelt apology.
Keessa koo baay’ee gaddaan dhiifama si gaafadha.
我真的很抱歉，请接受我的道歉。
Wǒ zhēn de hěn bàoqiàn, qǐng jiēshòu wǒ de dàoqiàn.
I offer my most sincere apology. (formal)
Baay’ee baay’een dhiifama si gaafadha.
我真的向你非常抱歉。
Wǒ zhēn de xiàng nǐ fēicháng bàoqiàn.
3.6.2. Offering a very polite apologies
You cannot believe how sorry I am.
Hangaam akkan gaddee amanuu hin dandeessu.
你不知道我感到多么抱歉。
Nǐ bù zhīdào wǒ gǎndào duōme bàoqiàn.
Words cannot describe how sorry I am.
Hamman akkan gaddee jechii ibsuu hin jiru.
语言无法描述我对你歉意。
Yǔyán wúfǎ miáoshù wǒ duì nǐ qiànyì.
I just don’t know what to say.
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Maal akkan jedhu hin beeku.
我真不知该说什么好。
Wǒ zhēn bùzhī gāi shuō shénme hǎo.
Please send me the bill, and I’ll take care of it.
Kafaltii yeroo kana anumaaf dhiisii.
我一次的账单你就交给我。
Zhè yīcì de zhàngdān nǐ jiù jiāo gěi wǒ.
3.6.3. Accepting the blame for something
It’s my fault. Kun dogoggora kootti.
这是我的错。Zhè shì wǒ de cuò.
It’s all my fault. Kun hundii dogoggora kootti.
这都是我的错。Zhè dōu shì wǒ de cuò.
I’m fully responsible. Guutummatti itti nan gaafatama.
我完全有责任。Wǒ wánquán yǒu zérèn.
I take full responsibility. Itti gaafatamumaa nan fuudhadhaa.
我承担全部责任。Wǒ chéngdān quánbù zérèn.
I take the blame. Komii nan fuudhadha.
我承担责备。Wǒ chéngdān zébèi.
I blame no one but myself. Of malee naman komaadhu.
我只怪我自己。Wǒ zhǐ guàiwǒ zìjǐ.
Mea culpa. (Latin) = I am guilty. Ani yakkamaadha.
我有罪。Wǒ yǒuzuì.
Maxima culpa. (Latin) => I am completely guilty.
Ani guutumatti yakkamaadha.
我完全有罪。Wǒ wánquán yǒuzuì.
3.6.4. Admitting your errors
My mistake. Dogoggora koodha. 我的错。
I shouldn’t have said that. Akkas jechuun narra hin ture.
我不应该那样说。Wǒ bù yìng gāi nàyàng shuō.
I shouldn’t have done that. Akkas hojjechun narra hin ture.
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我不应该那样做。Wǒ bù yìng gāi nàyàng zuò.
I should have asked you first. Dursa si gaafachu narra ture.
我应该先问你的。
I didn’t mean it. Akkas jechuu koo miti.
我不是那个意思。我不是故意的。
Wǒ bùshì nàgè yìsi. Wǒ bùshì gùyì de.
I honestly didn’t mean it. Dhugaadha akkas jechuu oo miti.
我真的不是故意的。Wǒ zhēn de bùshì gùyì de.
I didn’t mean to do it. Beeka miti.
I didn’t mean to do that. An akkas yaade miti.
我并不是那么做。Wǒ bìng bùshì nàme zuò.
I didn’t mean to say that. An akkas jechuu koo miti.
我不是故意这么说的。Wǒ bùshì gùyì zhème shuō de.
I didn’t mean it that way. An akkas jechuu koo miti.
我不是那个意思。Wǒ bùshì nàgè yìsi.
I didn’t intend it that way. An akkas yaade miti.
I don’t know how that could have happened.
Akkas ta’a jedhe hin yaadne.
我不知道怎么会这样。Wǒ bù zhīdào zěnme huì zhèyàng.
3.6.5. Promising never to repeat a particular mistake
It won’t happen again. Waan akkas lamattaa hin uumamu.
这种事不会再发生了。
Zhè zhǒng shì bù huì zài fāshēngle.
It will never happen again.
Kun taasuma irra deebi’e hin uumamu.
这种事再也不会发生了。
Zhè zhǒng shì zài yě bù huì fāshēngle.
I’ll see (to it) that it never happens again.
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Wanti kun gonkuma lamaffaa akka hin uumamne nan amana.
我会确保这种事不再发生。
Wǒ huì quèbǎo zhè zhǒng shì bù zài fāshēng.
I won’t do it again. Lamattaa hin hojjeedhu.
我不会再这样做了。Wǒ bù huì zài zhèyàng zuòle.
3.6.6. Offering to make amends
How can I make it up to you?
Akkamiin si kisuun danda’aa?
我这样才能补偿你呢？
Wǒ zhèyàng cáinéng bǔcháng nǐ ne?
How can I ever make it up to you?
Maal godheen si kisuu danda’aa?
要我怎样才能重归旧好？
Is there anything I can do (to make it up to you)?
Maal yoon hojjeedhe si kisuu danda’aa?
我做什么才能补偿你？
Wǒ zuò shénme cáinéng bǔcháng nǐ?
I promise I’ll make it up to you.
Waadaan sif gala waan hundaa akka duratti nan deebisa.
我保证会补偿你的。Wǒ bǎozhèng huì bǔcháng nǐ de.
3.6.7. Asking for forgiveness
Please forgive me. Maaloo dhiifama naa godhi.
请原谅我。Qǐng yuánliàng wǒ.
Can you forgive me?
Dhiifama naaf gochuu ni dandeessa?
你能原谅我吗？Nǐ néng yuánliàng wǒ ma?
Can you ever forgive me? Dhiifama naf ni taasista?
你会原谅我吗？Nǐ huì yuánliàng wǒ ma?
Can you find it in your heart to forgive me?
Laphee keerra dhiifama naf gochuu ni dandeessa?
你能宽宏大量的原谅我吗？
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Nǐ néng kuānhóngdàliàng de yuánliàng wǒ ma?
How can you ever forgive me?
Akkamiin dhiifama naf gochuu dandeessa?
你怎么能原谅我？Nǐ zěnme néng yuánliàng wǒ?
I ask your forgiveness. Dhiifama akka naaf gotun si gaafadha.
我请求你的原谅。Wǒ qǐngqiú nǐ de yuánliàng.
I beg your forgiveness. (formal)
Akka dhiifama naf gotuun si kadhadhaa.
我请求你的原谅。Wǒ qǐngqiú nǐ de yuánliàng.
I throw myself upon your mercy. (formal)
Dhiifama akka naf gotuuf sitti of gaterraa.
我求你发发慈悲。Wǒ qiú nǐ fǎ fǎ cíbēi.
I ask for your mercy. (formal)
Dhiifama ken barbaada.
我求你的宽恕。Wǒ qǐngqiú nǐ de kuānshù
3.7. Forgiving
3.7.1. Simple forgiviness
I forgive you. Dhiifama sif godherraa.
我原谅你。Wǒ yuánliàng nǐ.
You’re forgiven. Dhiifamni sif ta’eerra.
你被原谅了。Nǐ bèi yuánliàngle.
All is forgiven. Hundaaf dhiifamni ta’eerra.
一切都被原谅了。Yīqiè dōu bèi yuánliàngle.
That’s all right. Homaa miti. 没关系！
It’s okay. (informal) Rakkoon qabu. 没关系。
That’s okay. (informal) Homaa miti. 没关系。
Don’t worry about it. Waa’ee isa hin dhiphattiin.
别担心。Bié dānxīn.
Think on it no more. (formal) Hin yaada’iin.
别再想了。Bié zài xiǎngle.
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Think of it no more. (formal) Kanarraa hin yaadin.
不要再想了。Bùyào zài xiǎngle.
Think no more of it. (formal)
Kanarraa yaada’uun hin barbaachisu.
Don’t give it another thought. Yaada biran hin dhiphaattin.
To err is human, to forgive divine. (cliché)
Dogoggorruun namaf, dhiifamaa gochuun waaqaf.
犯错是人，宽恕是神。Fàncuò shì rén, kuānshù shì shén.
3.7.2. Forgiveness – informal
Forget it. Irraanfadhua baa! 算了吧！
Forget about it. Waa’ee isa irraanfadhu.
忘了这事吧。Wàngle zhè shì ba.
Forgive and forget.
Dhiifama godhi irraanfadhu.
不念旧恶。握手言和。Bù niànjiù è. Wòshǒu yán hé.
Don’t worry about it. Waa’ee isa hin dhiphaattin.
别担心，不用担心。Bié dānxīn, bùyòng dānxīn.
Write it off. Dagadhuu baa！算了吧。
I’ll let you off this time. Yeroo kana nan sif dhiisa.
这次我饶了你。Zhè cì wǒ ráole nǐ.
I’ll let it slide this time. Yeroo kana sirran darba.
这次我放过你。Zhè cì wǒ fàngguò nǐ.
I’ll give you another chance. Carraa bira sifan kenna.
我再给你一次机会。Wǒ zài gěi nǐ yīcì jīhuì.
I’ll turn the other cheek. Dhiifama nan sif godha.
容忍，甘受侮辱。Róngrěn；Gānshòu wǔrǔ
I won’t hold it against you. Kana sirratti hin qabadhu.
我不会责怪你。我不会记仇的。
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Wǒ bù huì zéguài nǐ. Wǒ bù huì jìchóu de.
3.7.3. Encouraging someone to end a dispute
Let’s drop the subject. Waan bira haa haasofnu.
我不想再谈这件事了，我们不要再提它了。
Wǒ bùxiǎng zài tán zhè jiàn shìle, wǒmen bùyào zài tí tāle.
Let’s bury the hatchet. (idiomatic)
Faalmi kana haa dhiisnu baa!
我们言归于好吧。Wǒmen yánguīyúhǎo ba.
Let’s bring this matter to a close.
Dhimma kana gara xumuraatti haa fidnu.
我们结束这件事吧。Wǒmen jiéshù zhè jiàn shì ba.
It’s time to kiss and make up. (cliché)
Kun yeroo itti nagaa waliin jedhadha.
是时候亲吻和好了。Shì shíhòu qīnwěn hé hǎole.
3.8. Showing Gratitude
3.8.1. Saying “thank you” – formal
Thank you. Galatooma / Galatoomi. 谢谢
Thank you very much. Baay’ee galatoomi /ma.
非常感谢。Fēicháng gǎnxiè.
Thank you so much. Baay’ee galatooma.
Thank you for your help. Gargarsaa keef baay’ee galatoomi.
谢谢你的帮助。Xièxiè nǐ de bāngzhù.
Thank you for all you’ve done. Waan hundaaf galatoomi.
谢谢你所做的一切。Xièxiè nǐ suǒ zuò de yīqiè.
Thank you for everything. Waan hundaaf galata argadhu.
You have my thanks. Galatni koo guddaadha.
谢谢你。Xièxiè nǐ.
You have my gratitude. Galataa qabda.
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我很感激你。Wǒ hěn gǎnjī nǐ.
I’m deeply grateful. Galanni koo guddaadha.
我非常感激。Wǒ fēicháng gǎnjī.
I’m in your debt. Dugdaa narra qabda.
我欠你的。Wǒ qiàn nǐ de.
I’m indebted to you. Dugdii kee narra jira. Galatoomi.
我很感激你。Wǒ hěn gǎnjī nǐ.
Thanks ever so much. Baay’ee guddaa galatoomi.
Thanks very much. Baay’ee galatoomi.
3.8.2. Saying “thank you” – informal
Thanks. Galatoomi. 谢谢。
Thanks much. Galatoomi baay’ee. 多谢。
Thanks for everything. Waan hundaaf galatoomi.
Thanks so much. Baay’ee galatoomi.
Thanks a lot. Baay’ee galatoomi.
Thanks a million. Baay’ee galatomomi. 太感谢了。
Thanks a bunch. Baay’ee galatoomi.
Thanks a bundle. Galata guddaa.
Thanks heaps. Galatoomi. 谢谢你！
I owe you one. Dugdaa tokko narra qabda.
我欠你个人情了。Wǒ qiàn nǐ gè rénqíngle
I owe you big. Dugdaa guddaa narra qabda.
我欠你个大人请。Wǒ qiàn nǐ gè dàrén qǐng.
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I owe you big-time. Waan guddaa narra qabda.
你这功劳可大了。Nǐ zhè gōngláo kě dàle.
3.9. Returning Thanks
3.9.1. Acknowledging someone’s thanks – formal
You’re welcome. Homaa miti. Rakkoon qabu.
不客气。别客气。Bù kèqì. Bié kèqì.
You’re most welcome. Homaa rakkoon qabu.
不用谢。Bùyòng xiè.
You’re entirely welcome. Waan tokko rakoon qabu.
不客气。Bù kèqì.
My pleasure. Si gargaruu koof baay’een gammada.
太客气了。（和长辈）Tài kèqìle (hé zhǎngbèi)
见外了不是。（和朋友）Jiàn wài liǎo bùshì.(Hé péngyǒu)
It was my pleasure. Si gargaruun qaba. Rakkoon qabu.
应该的，应该的。Yīnggāi de, yīnggāi de.
The pleasure was mine. Na gammachisaa.
非常高兴为你服务。Fēicháng gāoxìng wèi nǐ fúwù.
The pleasure was all mine. Kun hundii gammachuu kootti.
我很乐意。Wǒ hěn lèyì.
The pleasure was entirely mine. Kun baay’ee na gammachisa.
那是我的荣幸。Nà shì wǒ de róngxìng.
3.9.2. Acknowledging someone’s thanks – informal
It was nothing. Homaa miti 没什么、别客气。
Don’t mention it. Wayyuu miti. 别客气。
No problem. Rakkoon qabu. 没问题。
No sweat. (slang) Rakkoon qabu. Rakkinaa hin qabu.
不麻烦，毫不费力，没什么大不了。
Bù máfan, háo bù fèilì, méishénme dàbùliǎo.
Any time. Yeroo kamiyyuu. 随时都可以。
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No trouble. Rakkinaa hin qabu. 没问题。
No skin off my nose. Kun rakkoo kee miti, dhimma kees miti.
这件事不是你的问题，也不是你的麻烦，而你也不在乎。
Zhè jiàn shì bùshì nǐ de wèntí, yě bùshì nǐ de máfan, ér nǐ
yě bùzàihū.
No skin off my teeth. Kun dhimma koo miti. 不关我的事。
No skin off my back. Dadhabii xiqqoodha.
举手之劳而已。Jǔshǒuzhīláo éryǐ, 毫无关系。
3.10. Special Occassions
3.10.1. Seeing a new baby
Oh, isn’t he cute! Akkam namatti tola. 哦，他真可爱！
Isn’t he the sweetest thing! Kan baay’ee namatti tolu miti？
他不是最可爱的人吗？Tā bùshì zuì kě'ài de rén ma?
Oh, isn’t she darling! Ishee baay’ee nama mararti.
他是不是前爱的？Tā shì bùshì qián ài de?
She’s beautiful. Isheen baay’ee bareedi. 她很漂亮。
She’s so big! Isheen guddoodha. 她真大。
What an adorable baby! Daa’imaa baay’ee namatti toltudha.
多么可爱的宝贝啊。Duōme kě'ài de bǎobèi a.
His eyes are just like his father’s.
Iji isa abbaa dhuma isa fakkaata.
他的眼睛就像他爸的眼睛一样。
Tā de yǎnjīng jiù xiàng tā bà de yǎnjīng yīyàng.
Her nose looks just like her mother’s.
Funyaan ishee kan harmee ishee fakkaata.
她的鼻子看起来和他妈妈一样。
Tā de bízi kàn qǐlái hé tā māmā yīyàng.
She has her father’s eyes.
Iji ishee kan abbaa ishee wajjin tokko.
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她的眼睛和她爸很像。Tā de yǎnjīng hé tā bà hěn xiàng.
He’s got his mother’s nose.
Funyaan isa kan harmee isa fakkaata.
他的鼻子和他妈很像。Tā de bízi hé tā māmā hěn xiàng.
3.10.2. Asking about new baby
How much does he weigh? Hangam ulfaata？
他有多重。Tā yǒu duōchóng.
Was he early? Cininsuun irra hin ture?
他出生早吗？Tā chūshēng zǎo ma?
Was she late? Ciniinsun irra turerraa?
她出生迟了吗？Tā chūshēng chíle ma?
What’s his name? Maqaan isaa eenyuu?
他叫什么名字？Tā jiào shénme míngzì?
Who is she named after? Maqaa ishee eenyuu jatan?
她叫什么名字？Tā jiào shénme míngzì?
Has he been sleeping well? Hiriba gaarii ni rafa?
他睡得好吗？Tā shuì dé hǎo ma?
Is she sleeping through the night? Halkan guutuu ni raafti?
她整晚都在睡觉吗？Tā zhěng wǎn dōu zài shuìjiào ma?
Does he sleep through the night yet? Halkan guutuu ni rafaa?
他整晚都在睡觉吗？Tā zhěng wǎn dōu zài shuìjiào ma?
Can I hold her? Mee takka ishee baadhu?
我能抱着她吗？Wǒ néng bàozhe tā ma?
May I hold him? Mee takka isa baadhu?
我可以抱着他吗？Wǒ kěyǐ bàozhe tā ma?
3.10.3. Congratulating someone for doing a good job
Congratulations! Baga gammadaan. / baga gammadde.
恭喜你，祝贺你！Gōngxǐ nǐ, zhùhè nǐ!
Good going! Gaariitti deema jira.
干得好，做得好！Gàn dé hǎo, zuò dé hǎo!
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Good job! Hojii gaariidha. Waan gaarii!
Good work! Dalagaa gaarii, Hojii gaarii!
Bravo! Baay’ee gaarii! 好极了。
干得漂亮！Gàn dé piàoliang!
3.10.4. Wishing someone well
Happy Birthday!
Baga dhalatee! Baga guyyaa dhaloota kee geesse.
生日快乐！Shēngrì kuàilè!
. . . and many (many) more! Kanarra baay’ee baay’ee
还有更多！Hái yǒu gèng duō！
Many happy returns! Carraa gaarii!
祝你好运！Zhù nǐ hǎo yùn!
Happy Anniversary! Ayyaana gaarii!
周年快乐！Zhōunián kuàilè!
Congratulations! Baga gammadde! Baga gammadaan.
祝贺，恭喜！Zhùhè, gōngxǐ!
Good luck! Carraa gaarii!
祝你好运！Zhù nǐ hǎo yùn!
Best wishes! Carraa gaarii! 祝你好运！
All our best! Waan gaarii hundii sif haa ta’u.
一切顺利，万事如意！yīqiè shùnlì, wànshì rúyì
Bon voyage! (French) (said when someone is leaving on a sea
voyage) Karaa gaarii sif haa ta’u!
一路顺风！Yīlù shùnfēng!
Have a good time! Yeroo gaarii sif haa ta’u!
玩得愉快！Wán dé yúkuài!
Have a good trip! Deemsa gaarii sif haa ta’u!
祝您旅途愉快！Zhù nín lǚtú yúkuài!
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3.8.5. Expressing sympathy at a funeral or wake
I’m sorry. Baay’een gadda. 很遗憾。hěn yíhàn.
I’m so sorry. Baay’ee baay’een gadda.
为你感到难过。
I’m so sorry for your loss. Bakka kee baay’een gadda.
很遗憾你失去了…
I’m very sorry. Baay’een gadda. 很遗憾。
You have my sympathy. Anis akkuma keen gaddaa.
我很同情你！
You have my deepest sympathy. (formal)
Anis waan ta’ee baay’iseen gadda. 我对你深表同情。
Please accept my sympathy. (formal)
Anis baay’iseen gaddaa.
请接受我最深切的慰问。
My heart goes out to you.
Keessi koo baay’ee waa’ee keen gadda.
我很同情你，我的心向往着你。
Wǒ hěn tóngqíng nǐ, wǒ de xīn xiàngwǎngzhe nǐ.
I share your sorrow. Gaddii kee gaddaa kootti.
我共同你的悲伤。Wǒ gòngtóng nǐ de bēishāng
I share your pain. Midhamni kee midhamaa kootti.
我共同你的痛苦。Wǒ gòngtóng nǐ de tòngkǔ.
How are you doing? Akkam jirtaa?
你怎么样了？Nǐ zěnme yàngle?
If you need anything, please let us know.
Yoo wanta fedhee barbaade nu beeksisi.
如果你需要什么，请告诉我们。
Rúguǒ nǐ xūyào shénme, qǐng gàosù wǒmen.
If there’s anything we can do for you, please let us know.
Wanta kam iyyuu yoo kan sif hojjechu dandeenyu ta’ee, nu
beeksisi.
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如果我们能为你做什么，请告诉我们。
Rúguǒ wǒmen néng wéi nǐ zuò shénme, qǐng gàosù wǒmen.
Our thoughts are with you. Yaadni keenya si wajjin jira.
我们的思念与你同在。Wǒmen de sīniàn yǔ nǐ tóng zài.
我们会精神上支持你。
Wǒmen huì jīngshén shàng zhīchí nǐ.
You’re in our prayers. Kadhannaa keenyatti si yaadanna.
我们为你祈祷。Wǒmen wèi nǐ qídǎo.
We’ll keep you in our prayers.
Kadhannaa keenyatti si yaadanna.
Chapter – 4
4. Impolite Encounters
4.1. Jechoota Kabajaa hin qabne Kutaa 1ffaa
4.1.1. When someone is conceited or vain
You’re so vain. Baay’ee of agarsiifte jirta.
你太自负了。Nǐ tài zìfùle.
You’re too big for your britches. (informal) britches = trousers
Ati baay’ee of jajjaa.
你是太狂妄自大，你是自以为是的人。
Nǐ shì tài kuángwàng zì dà, nǐ shì zìyǐwéishì de rén.
You’re getting a little big for your britches. (informal)
你有点自高自大的。Nǐ yǒudiǎn zìgāozìdà de.
Aren’t you getting a little big for your britches? (informal)
Ati xiqqoo of jajjaa hin jirturree?
你不是有点自负吗？Nǐ shì bùshì yǒudiǎn zìfù ma?
You’re so full of yourself. (idiomatic)
Ati anumatuu sirriidha jetta.
你太自以为是了。Nǐ tài zìyǐwéishìle.
You think you’re pretty smart, don’t you? (informal)
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Akka yaadutti ati baay’ee gamanaadha, miti?
你觉得自己很聪明，不是吗？
Nǐ juédé zìjǐ hěn cōngmíng, bùshì ma?
You think you’re so smart. (informal)
Akka yaadutti ati abshaala.
你觉得自己很聪明。 Nǐ juédé zìjǐ hěn cōngmíng.
You think you’re so big. (informal)
Akka nama barbaadamatti of yaada.
你觉得自己很重要。
Nǐ juédé zìjǐ hěn zhòngyào.
You think you’re such a big shot. (informal) a big shot = an
important person
Ofii akka waan guddaatti of ilaalta.
你觉得自己是很重要的人。
Nǐ juédé zìjǐ shì hěn zhòngyào de rén.
You just like to hear yourself talk. (informal)
Ati ofii yeroo dubbatu qofa dhaga’amu jaallata.
你只是喜欢听自己说话。
Nǐ zhǐshì xǐhuān tīng zìjǐ shuōhuà.
You talk just to hear yourself speak. (informal)
Ati of dhaga’uu qofaf dubbataa.
你说话就是为了听自己说话。
Nǐ shuōhuà jiùshì wèile tīng zìjǐ shuōhuà.
You think the world revolves around you.
Wanumaa akka addunyaan sirra nannooftu of taasisifte.
你太自命不凡了，你自以为了不起。
Nǐ tài zìmìng bùfánle, nǐ zì yǐwéi liǎobùqǐ.
The world doesn’t revolve around you.
Addunyaan sirra hin naannooftuu bar.
世界又不是光绕着你一个人转。
Shìjiè yòu bùshì guāng ràozhe nǐ yīgè rén zhuàn.
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All you think about is yourself.
Wanti ati yaadu hunduu wanuma dhuunfaa keetti.
你只想着你自己。Nǐ zhǐ xiǎngzhe nǐ zìjǐ.
Did you ever stop to think about anyone else?
Ati takkumaa illee waa’ee nama bira yaade beekta?
你有没有想过其他人？Nǐ yǒu méiyǒu xiǎngguò qítā rén?
4.1.2. When someone is overbearing
Who died and made you king? (informal)
Eenyuuttu mootii si taasise?
谁让你这么自以为是了？Shéi ràng nǐ zhème zìyǐwéishìle
谁死了而让你称王？Shéi sǐle ér ràng nǐ chēng wáng?
Who died and made you Pope? (informal)
Eenyuu du’ee qeessii si taasise?
谁死了让你成为教皇？
Shéi sǐle ràng nǐ chéngwéi jiàohuáng?
Who died and made you God? (informal)
Eenyuu du’ee waaqa si taasise?
谁死了让你成为上帝？
Shéi sǐle ràng nǐ chéngwéi shàngdì?
Smarty. (informal) Haxxee! 小聪明！Xiǎocōngmíng!
Smart-ass. (mildly vulgar) Beekte dutettaa. 自作聪明。
Smartypants. (slang) Beekte dutee. 自以为聪明的人。
Know-it-all. (informal) Beekte dutee.
自称无所不知的人。Zìchēng wú suǒ bùzhī de rén.
Get off your high horse. (informal) = Be less arrogant.
Beeka hin jedhiin. 别再自以为是了。Bié zài zìyǐwéishìle.
Who do you think you are? Ati eenyuu of seeta?
你以为你谁呀？你算什么东西？
Nǐ yǐwéi nǐ shéi ya? Nǐ suàn shénme dōngxī?
You think you’re so smart? (informal)
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Ati akka yaadutti ofii abshaala?
你觉得自己很聪明吗? Nǐ juédé nǐ hěn cōngmíng ma?
You and who else? (informal) Si malee eenyuu?
除了你还有谁？Chúle nǐ hái yǒu shéi?
You and what army? (slang) Sif loltuu kam?
你和哪一路的人马啊？Nǐ hé nǎ yīlù de rénmǎ a?
What makes you so special? (informal)
Maaltu addaa si taasisa?
是什么让你如此特别？Shì shénme ràng nǐ rúcǐ tèbié?
Don’t break your arm patting yourself on the back. (idiomatic)
Of jajjuu hin ariifattin.
先别着急表扬自己。Xiān bié zhāojí biǎoyáng zìjǐ.
You think you’re so hot. (informal) hot = important
你觉得自己很重要吧。Nǐ juédé zìjǐ hěn zhòngyào ba.
You think you’re such hot stuff. (informal) hot stuff = someone or
something important
Ati baay’ee barbaachisa jette of yaada.
你觉得自己是个很重要的人。
Nǐ juédé zìjǐ shìgè hěn zhòngyào de rén.
4.1.3. When someone has been insolent or rude – shocked
response
The nerve of you! => nerve = impudence; brashness
厚着脸皮。Hòuzhe liǎnpí.
What nerve you have! Qabdakkaa onneessa.
你有胆子。Nǐ yǒu dǎnzi.
You have a lot of nerve! Onneen sitti baay’atee jirti.
你有很大的胆子。Nǐ yǒu hěn dà de dǎnzi.
You’ve got a lot of nerve! Onneen sitti jirti.
你真有胆子。Nǐ zhēnyǒu dǎnzi.
The gall! Sodaattu! 胆小鬼。Dǎnxiǎoguǐ.
The very idea! Yaade duteetta. 正是这个想法。
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How dare you! Akkamin akkas gota.
你好大胆子。Nǐ hào dàdǎn zi.
你怎么能这样。Nǐ zěnme néng zhèyàng
How could you say such a thing?
Ati akkamitti akka kana dubbataa?
你怎么这么说话呀？Nǐ zěnme zhème shuōhuà ya?
4.1.4. When someone has been insolent or rude – firm
response
Don’t get smart with me! Abshaala natti hin ta’in.
别跟我耍花招！Bié gēn wǒ shuǎhuāzhāo!
Don’t get sassy with me. (folksy) => sassy = insolent
Jecha kee sirreeffadhu. Asi gad hin haasa’in.
别对我无礼。Bié duì wǒ wú lǐ.
Don’t sass me. (folksy) Tuffii kee narra dhabi.
别嘲笑我。Bié cháoxiào wǒ.
Don’t talk back to me. Dubbaa koon hin oddeessin.
别跟我顶嘴。Bié gēn wǒ dǐngzuǐ.
Don’t give me any of your lip. (informal) => lip = insolent talk
Yeroo dubbadhuu hin dubbattiin.
别跟我扯嘴。Bié gēn wǒ chě zuǐ
Don’t get uppity on me. (folksy) => uppity = arrogant
Natti of hin korsiin. 别对我傲慢。Bié duì wǒ àomàn.
Don’t get cocky. (informal) => cocky = insolent
Baay’ee of hin jajjiin. 别太骄傲。Bié tài jiāo'ào.
Don’t get fresh. (informal) => fresh = insolent; impudent
给我放尊重点。Gěi wǒ fàng zūnzhòng diǎn
Don’t get your nose out of joint. (informal)
Baay’istee hin aariin.
别把鼻子都气歪了。Bié bǎ bízi dōu qì wāile.
Watch yourself. Watch it. (informal) Watch out.
Of eeggaadhu! 小心点！Xiǎoxīn diǎn!
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4.1.5. When someone has been insolent or rude – rude
response
Oh, a smart-aleck? (informal) => a smart-aleck = an insolent
person Haxxee nama! 哦，聪明人！Ó, cōngmíng rén!
Oh, a wise guy? (slang) Haxxee nama! 哦，一个聪明人！
a wiseguy = a smart aleck
Oh, a smart-ass? (mildly vulgar) => a smart-ass = a smart aleck
Beekte dutee!
自以为聪明的家伙。Zì yǐwéi cōngmíng de jiāhuo.
Oh, a smart mouth? (slang) => a smart mouth = an impudent-
talking smart aleck Oddeessittu.
爱耍嘴皮子的人。Ài shuǎzuǐpízi de rén.
Wiseguy. (slang) Abshaala kan of taasisuu.
自以为聪明的人。Zì yǐwéi cōngmíng de rén.
Wiseacre. (slang) Kan waan hundaan beeka jedhu.
自以为无所不知的人。Zì yǐwéi wú suǒ bùzhī de rén.
Smart-aleck. (informal)
Waan hundaan qulqulluu warra of jedhu.
自以为是的人。Zìyǐwéishì de rén.
Wipe that grin off your face. (informal)
Kan dubbadhutti hin kolfiin.
别笑我【别笑我说的话】
Bié xiào wǒ [bié xiào wǒ shuō dehuà]
Wipe that smirk off your face. (informal)
Akka gowwaa hin kolfiin.
别那么傻笑了。Bié nàme shǎxiàole.
4.1.6. Encouraging a timid person
Show a little resolve.
Murannoo xiqqumaa illee qabadhu.
表现出一点决心。Biǎoxiàn chū yīdiǎn juéxīn.
Show some courage.
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Onneen xiqqumaa illee si keessa haa jiraatu.
表现出一些勇气。Biǎoxiàn chū yīxiē yǒngqì.
Show some spine. Gootummaa qabadhu.
勇气一点。Yǒngqì yīdiǎn.
Don’t be so spineless.
Nama gootummaa hin qabne hin ta’iin.
别那么没用的白痴。Bié nàme méi yòng de báichī.
Don’t be such a chicken-shit. (taboo) => a chicken-shit = a coward
Dabeessa gadhee hin ta’iin.
别这么胆小鬼。Bié zhème dǎnxiǎoguǐ.
Don’t be such a lily-liver. (informal) => a lily-liver = a coward
Boqbaqaa sodaatuu hin ta’in.
别这么胆小。Bié zhème dǎn xiǎo.
4.1.7. Insulating a coward
Chicken! (slang) / Wimp! (slang) / Wuss! (slang) => Coward!
Boqbaqaa, Sodaata, Sodaatu. 胆小。Dǎn xiǎo.
Fraidy-cat! (juvenile) => a fraidy-cat = a coward Sodaatu.
胆小猫。Dǎn xiǎo māo.
Scaredy-cat! (juvenile) => a scaredy-cat = a coward Boqbaaqa
胆小鬼。Dǎnxiǎoguǐ.
You’re yellow. (informal) => yellow = cowardly
Ati sodaatudha. 你很胆小。Nǐ hěn dǎn xiǎo.
You yellow-bellied sapsucker. (informal) = You coward.
Ati boqbaaqadha. Ati sodaatudha.
你这个黄肚皮的笨蛋。Nǐ zhège huáng dùpí de bèndàn.
You are a gutless wonder. (slang) => gutless = cowardly
Ati raajii onnee hin qabneedha.
你是个没有勇气的奇迹。Nǐ shìgè méiyǒu yǒngqì de qíjī.
You’re afraid of your own shadow. (informal)
Ati gadiduu kee iyyuu ni sodaata.
你害怕自己的影子。Nǐ hàipà zìjǐ de yǐngzi.
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胆小如鼠。Dǎn xiǎo rú shǔ.
Are you a man or a mouse? (cliché)
Maal akkas sodaata ati?
你是男人还是老鼠啊？Nǐ shì nánrén háishì lǎoshǔ?
不成龙便成虫。Bù chénglóng biàn chéngchóng.
Cat got your tongue? (cliché) => Are you afraid or unable to
speak? Ati maaf hin dubbatuu?
你怎么不说话了？Nǐ zěnme bù shuōhuàle?
你是不是哑巴了？Nǐ shì bùshì yǎbāle?
你怎么结结巴巴的？Nǐ zěnme jié jiē bābā de?
Got cold feet? => Are you too frightened to act?
Maaf akka riphxee? 手脚冰凉。Shǒujiǎo bīngliáng.
You really wimped out. (slang) => wimped out = withdrew in a
cowardly fashion Ati sodaan batee jirta.
你完全放弃了。Nǐ wánquán fàngqìle.
You really chickened out. (slang) => chickened out = withdrew in
a cowardly fashion Ati sodaan batee jirta.
你已经逃跑了。Nǐ yǐjīng táopǎole.
Lose your nerve? => Did you lose your resolve?
Onnee kee saree nyaate?
你失去勇气了吗？Nǐ shīqù yǒngqìle ma?
4.1.8. When someone argues too much
Don’t contradict me. Faalla koo hin deemin.
你别否定我。
You see everything in black and white. => in black and white = in
simple yes-no terms
Ati wan hundaa salphaatti hin ilaalin.
你别把一切事情看得一清二楚。
Nǐ bié bǎ yīqiè shìqíng kàn dé yī qīng'èr chǔ.
If I said it was black, you’d say it was white.
Yoon gurraacha jedhe, ati adii jetta. Faalla koo deemta.
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That’s as different as day and night.
Kun akkuma guyyaafi halkan gargar.
You’re just disagreeing to disagree.
Diduu irraa gara diduutti darbitte.
你就是不同意了！Nǐ jiùshì bù tóngyìle!
You’re just disagreeing for the sake of disagreeing.
Diduu dhumaaf jechaa didee jirta.
You’re just playing the devil’s advocate.
Faalli seexana faalma jirta.
You just like to hear yourself talk.
Ati ofumaa kee qofa dubbaachu jaallata.
你只喜欢听自己的说话。
Nǐ zhǐ xǐhuān tīng zìjǐ de shuōhuà.
4.1.9. When someone is being annoying
Would you stop that? Maaloo dhiisuu ni dandeessa?
你能不能这么说啊？Nǐ néng bùnéng zhème shuō a?
Could you please stop doing that?
Maaloo kana hojjechu dhiisuu ni dandeessa?
你能不能这样？Nǐ néng bùnéng zhèyàng?
You are really trying my patience.
Ati obsaa koo madalaa jirta.
你真的在考研我的耐心。
Nǐ zhēn de zài kǎoyán wǒ de nàixīn.
That’s really annoying. Kun baay’ee nama aarsa.
真烦人！Zhēn fánrén!
That’s really irritating. Baay’ee nama aarsa.
那真是气人。Nà zhēnshi qì rén.
That’s driving me nuts! (slang) Na maraachuuf jedha.
我快发疯了。Wǒ kuài fāfēngle.
That’s making me crazy! (informal) Kun na maraachuuf jedha.
这让我发疯了。Zhè ràng wǒ fāfēngle.
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That’s really bothersome. Kun baay’ee rakkisaadha.
这真的很麻烦。Zhè zhēn de hěn máfan.
That’s really bothering me. Kun baay’ee na jeeqa jira.
这真让我心烦。Zhè zhēn ràng wǒ xīnfán.
That’s really bugging me. (slang) => bugging = bothering
这让我心不安。Zhè ràng wǒ xīn bù'ān.
That’s getting on my nerves. (idiomatic) => getting on my nerves =
annoying me Kun sammuutti na baha jira.
惹我厌烦。Rě wǒ yànfán
4.1.10. Inviting an annoying person to leave
Scram! (slang) => Get out!; Badi! 滚开！Gǔn kāi!
Go away! Deemi! 走开！Zǒu kāi!
Get lost. (slang) Badi! 滚开！
Go blow. (slang) Badi! 滚开！去吹吧！
Go fry an egg. (slang) Deemi, badi, rakkinaa natti hin fidiin.
滚开，别来找我麻烦。Gǔn kāi, bié lái zhǎo wǒ máfan.
Go suck a lemon. (slang) Dhaqii loomii xuuxi
吮柠檬吧。Shǔn níngméng ba.
Make yourself scarce. (slang) Ati deemi, Sokkii asi!
你走吧，避开，不露面！Nǐ zǒu ba, bì kāi, bù lòumiàn!
Go away! Deemi asi! 走开！
Go climb a tree! (slang) Badi asi! 你滚开！
Go fly a kite! (slang) Badi. 滚开。Gǔn kāi!
Go jump in the lake! (informal) (Go) Nan rakkisiin, badii!
别来烦我，快滚，别管闲事。
Bié lái fán wǒ, kuài gǔn, biéguǎn xiánshì.
Go play in traffic! (informal) / Buzz off! (slang) / Bug off! (slang)
Deemi! 走开！
Scat! (slang) Daaf deemi asi! 赶快走开！Gǎnkuài zǒu kāi!
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Scram! (slang) Badi asi! 滚开！Gǔn kāi!
Take a hike! (slang) Badi asi! 走路（滚蛋）Zǒulù (gǔndàn)
Get lost! (slang) Badi asi! 滚开！Gǔn kāi!
Get out of here! (informal) Deemi asi, badi asi! 滚出去！
Get out of my face! (slang) Fuula koo dura badi!
走开，离我远点儿！Zǒu kāi, lí wǒ yuǎn diǎn er!
4.2.Jechoota aarii, dhabii, kabaajafi biroo
4.2.1. When someone is very annoying and hurful
Why don’t you rub a little salt in the wound?
Maaf ashaboo xiqqoo madaatti hin dabaltu?
伤口上撒盐，雪上加霜！
Shāngkǒu shàng sā yán, xuěshàngjiāshuāng
You’re going to be the death of me yet.
Ati du’a natti taatte jirta.
You’d try the patience of a saint.
Kana obsuun baay’ee rakkisaadha.
圣人也忍受不了。Shèngrén yě rěnshòu bùliǎo
You really get my goat. to get my goat = to annoy me
Ati na aarsuf kutatee jirta.
你真烦我。Nǐ zhēn fán wǒ.
You’re driving me up the wall.
Ati na maraachisuuf deema jirta.
你快把我逼疯了。Nǐ kuài bǎ wǒ bī fēngle.
You really know what buttons to push. what buttons to push =
how to make me angry
Ati dhugaa akkamin akka na aarsittu ni beekta.
你真知道怎么让我生气。
You’re pushing my buttons.
Ati bar na aarsa jirta.
你真在让我生气。Nǐ zhēn zài ràng wǒ shēngqì.
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4.2.2. Getting someone to stop doing something
Must you (do that)?
Ati kana dirqamaa hojjechu qabda.
你必须那样做吗？Nǐ bìxū nàyàng zuò ma?
Must you continue to do that?
Ati kana itti fuftee hojjechu qabda?
你必须继续那样做吗？Nǐ bìxū jìxù nàyàng zuò ma?
Stop bothering me. Na rakkisuu dhabi.
别再烦我了！Bié zài fán wǒle!
Stop pestering me. Na dhiphisuu dhiisi!
别再纠缠我了！Bié zài jiūchán wǒle!
Quit pestering me. Na dhiphisuu dhabi.
别烦我了！Bié fán wǒle!
Give it a rest. (slang) => it = your mouth Al tokkoo boqodhu.
先休息一下！Xiān xiūxí yīxià!
Knock it off! (slang) Hin dubbattiin. 别说啦！
Cut it out! (slang) Hin dubbattin. Ni ga’aa.
闭嘴，别瞎说，省省吧！
Bì zuǐ, bié xiāshuō, shěng shěng ba!
Enough, already! (informal) Ni ga’aa!
够了，算了！Gòule, suànle!
4.2.3. When someone is making you angry – rude
I’m really upset with you right now.
Amma baay’een sitti aara jira.
我现在真的很生你的气。
Wǒ xiànzài zhēn de hěn shēng nǐ de qì.
Get a life! (slang) Deemi wanta hojjetu hojjedhu.
别来烦我了，做点别的有益的事。
Bié lái fán wǒle, zuò diǎn bié de yǒuyì de shì.
Get a clue! (slang)
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小记者大侦探。Xiǎo jìzhě dà zhēntàn
You’re pissing me off. (mildly vulgar) Na aarsa jirta.
你再惹我生气。Nǐ zài rě wǒ shēngqì.
I’m really getting P.O.’d. (mildly vulgar) => P.O.’d = pissed off =
angry Amma baay’ee na aarsa jirta.
我真的快疯了。Wǒ zhēn de kuài fēngle.
4.2.4. Asking to be left alone
Let me be. Nan jeeqin. 不要打扰我。
Let me alone. Mee qofatti na dhiisi. 让我一个人呆着。
Leave me be. Mee na dhiisi. 别管我。
Please go away. Maaloo narra deemi. 你走吧！
Please leave me alone. Maaloo qofatti na dhiisi.
请别管我！Qǐng biéguǎn wǒ!
I’m asking you to leave me alone.
Akka qofatti na dhiistun si gaafacha jira.
请别打扰我！Qǐng bié dǎrǎo wǒ!
I just want to be left alone. Qofa ta’un barbaada.
我只想一个人待着。Wǒ zhǐ xiǎng yīgè rén dàizhuó.
4.2.5. Describing a bothersome person
You’re a pain in the neck. (slang)
Ati dhukkubaa mormatti.
你真是个讨厌的人。Nǐ zhēnshi gè tǎoyàn de rén.
You’re a pain in the ass. (mildly vulgar)
Ati nama rakkisaa akka seexannatti.
你真是个讨厌鬼。Nǐ zhēnshi gè tǎoyàn guǐ.
You’re a pain in the butt. (mildly vulgar)
Ati rakkinaadha. 你真讨厌！Nǐ zhēn tǎoyàn!
You’re a royal pain. (slang) Ati rakkinaa cimaadha.
你真是个大坏蛋。Nǐ zhēnshi gè dà huàidàn.
You’re a pain. (slang) Ati rakkinaadha. Ati dhukkubadha.
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你真讨厌。Nǐ zhēn tǎoyàn.
He grates on my nerves. grates on my nerves = annoys me
Ati sammuutti ol na baha jirta.
He gets on my nerves. Sammuutti ol na bate jirta.

他让我心烦。Tā ràng wǒ xīnfán.
He pushes my buttons. Ati na aarsuf kate jirta.
你就是想惹怒我。Nǐ jiùshì xiǎng rě nù wǒ.
4.2.6. When someone has done something wrong – polite
How could you do such a silly thing?
Ati akkamitti hojii gowwaa akkasi hojjeta?
你怎么能做这么蠢的事？
Nǐ zěnme néng zuò zhème chǔn de shì?
How could you do such a thing?
Ati akkamitti akkas hojjeta?
你怎么能做这样的事？
Nǐ zěnme néng zuò zhèyàng de shì?
What could you have been thinking? Maal yaada turte?
你一直在想什么？Nǐ yīzhí zài xiǎng shénme?
What on earth were you thinking? Waa’ee maali yaada turte?
你到底在想什么？Nǐ dàodǐ zài xiǎng shénme?
What possessed you to do that?
Maaltu akkas akka hojjeetu si taasise?
是什么让你这么做的？Shì shénme ràng nǐ zhème zuò de?
What got into you? Maal taate ati ofii?
你怎么了？Nǐ zěnmeliǎo?
I hope you’re sorry. Akkan yaadutti dhiifama gaafata.
我希望你很抱歉。Wǒ xīwàng nǐ hěn bàoqiàn.
When will you ever learn? Ati yoomumaa bartaa?
你什么时候才能学会？Nǐ shénme shíhòu cáinéng xuéhuì?
Now what did you go and do that for? (folksy)
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Ati maalumaaf akkas hojjete?
那你为什么这么做？Nà nǐ wèishéme zhème zuò?
4.2.7. When someone has done something wrong – amazed
Are you out of your mind? Ni maraatte?
Are you crazy? Ni maraatte? Sammuu si tuqamee?
Have you taken leave of your senses?
Sammuu kee gad dhiiste? Sammuu kee gad dhiiste?
你脑子有病吗？Nǐ nǎozi yǒu bìng ma?
If I’ve told you once, I’ve told you a hundred times. (informal)
Yoon takkaa sitti hime, si’aa dhibba sitti himeen jira.
如果我告诉你一次，我已告诉你一百次了。
If I’ve told you once, I’ve told you a thousand times. (informal)
Yoon takka sitti hime, si’a kuma sitti himeen jira.
如果我告诉你一次，我已告诉你一千次了。
I can’t believe you embarrassed me like that!
Akkas na qaanneessita jedhe hin yaadne.
我真不敢相信你让我这么难堪。
Wǒ zhēn bù gǎn xiāngxìn nǐ ràng wǒ zhème nánkān.
If that’s what you think, you’ve got another think coming.
(informal) Akkas yaada taannan ati ammas yaada bira qabda.
如果你这么想的话，你就有了别的想法了
Rúguǒ nǐ zhème xiǎng dehuà, nǐ jiù yǒule bié de xiǎngfǎle.
You’ve got another think coming. (informal)
Yaada biras qabatte jirta.
你还有别的想法。Nǐ hái yǒu bié de xiǎngfǎ.
4.2.8. When someone has done something wrong – sarcastic
Are you happy (now)? Ati amma gammadde?
你现在高兴了吗？Nǐ xiànzài gāoxìngle ma?
Are you satisfied? Si gammachiseraa?
164
你满意了吗？Nǐ mǎnyìle ma?
I hope you’re happy. Akkan yaadutti ati gammadeeta.
我希望你满意了。Wǒ xīwàng nǐ mǎnyìle.
I hope you’re satisfied. Si quubse?
我希望你满意了。Wǒ xīwàng nǐ mǎnyìle.
Aren’t you proud of yourself? Of jaaju sitti hin fakkaanne?
你不为自己感到骄傲吗？
Nǐ bù wéi zìjǐ gǎndào jiāo'ào ma?
I hope you’re proud of yourself.
Akkan yaadutti of jaaju qabda.
我希望你为自己感到骄傲。
Wǒ xīwàng nǐ wèi zìjǐ gǎndào jiāo'ào.
4.2.9. When someone make an unwelcome intervention
Who asked you? (informal) Eenyuu si gaafate?
谁问你呢？Shéi wèn nǐ ne?
Who asked your opinion? Eenyuu yaada kee gaafate?
谁问你的意见？Shéi wèn nǐ de yìjiàn?
When I want your opinion, I’ll ask for it.
Yeroon yaada kee barbaadu, sin gaafadha.
当我需要你的意见时，我会问你的。
Dāng wǒ xūyào nǐ de yìjiàn shí, wǒ huì wèn nǐ de.
Who invited you? Eenyuu kan si affeeree?
谁邀请你的？Shéi yāoqǐng nǐ de?
You’re not invited. Ati hin affeeramne.
你没被邀请。Nǐ méi bèi yāoqǐng.
You’re not welcome here. As dhufun sif hin malu.
这里不欢迎你。Zhèlǐ bù huānyíng nǐ.
We don’t want your kind around here.
Kan akka kee asitti hin barbaadnu.
我们不想要你们这种人在这里。
165
4.2.10. Telling someone to stay away or keep out
Keep out. Irraa siqi. 离远点。
No trespassing. Darbuun dhorkaadha.
不准入内，禁止侵入！Bù zhǔn rù nèi, jìnzhǐ qīnrù!
Members only. Miseensota qofa.
只限会员，会员专区。
Zhǐ xiàn huìyuán, huìyuán zhuānqū.
Employees only. Hojjettaa qofa.
只限工作人员。Zhǐ xiàn gōngzuò rényuán
No admittance. Seenun dhorkaadha.
请勿入内，不准入内。Qǐng wù rùnèi, bù zhǔn rù nèi.
No admittance without proper identification. (formal)
Eenyumma sirriin alaa seenun dhorkaadha.
没有正确的身份证明，禁止入内。
Méiyǒu zhèngquè de shēnfèn zhèngmíng, jìnzhǐ rùnèi.
These premises are for the use of members and guests only.
(formal)
Bakkeen kun miseensafi keessummaaf qofa.
这些场所仅供会员和客人专用。
Zhèxiē chǎngsuǒ jǐn gōng huìyuán hé kèrén zhuānyòng.
4.2.11. Asking someone’s intention
You got a problem? (informal) Rakkoo qabda?
你有问题吗？Nǐ yǒu wèntí ma?
What do you mean by that? Maal jechuu keedha?
你这是什么意思？Nǐ zhè shì shénme yìsi?
Were you talking to me? Natti dubbachaa jirta?
你在跟我说话吗？Nǐ zài gēn wǒ shuōhuà ma?
Are you trying to start something?
Waa jalqabuu barbaada jirta?
你想开始做点什么？Nǐ xiǎng kāishǐ zuò diǎn shénme?
(Just exactly) what are you getting at? Maal jechaa jirta?
166
(Just exactly) what are you trying to say?
Maal jechuu barbaade?
4.3.Jechoota lola, qofa, hojaafi biroo
4.3.1. Asking someone to leave your property alone
Hands off! Harka kee kaasi. 住手！
Excuse me, that’s mine. Dhiifama sun kan koodha.
不好意思，那是我的！Bù hǎoyìsi, nà shì wǒ de!
Did I say you could touch that?
Akka ati itti butu siti dubbaadherraa?
我是不是说你可以碰它？
Wǒ shì bùshì shuō nǐ kěyǐ pèng tā?
Look with your eyes not your hands.
Ija keen ilaali, harkan hin tuqin.
只看，别碰！Zhǐ kàn, bié pèng!
If you break it, you pay for it. Yoo cabsitee, ni kafalta.
如果你弄坏了，你就要付出代价。
Rúguǒ nǐ nòng huàile, nǐ jiù yào fùchū dàijià.
If you break it, you’ve bought it. Yoo cabsitee ni bita.
如果你把它弄坏了，你就买了它。
Rúguǒ nǐ bǎ tā nòng huàile, nǐ jiù mǎi le tā.
4.3.2. Asking someone to stay out of your affairs
Mind your own business. (informal)
Dhimma keetti deebi’i!
管好你自己的事。Guǎn hǎo nǐ zìjǐ de shì.
Mind your own beeswax. (slang) beeswax = business
Osoo kan ishee danfu, kan nama sochoosti.
自管自吧！Zì guǎn zì ba!
M.Y.O.B. (slang) = Mind your own business.
167
Kan kee beeki! 自管自吧！Zì guǎn zì ba!
Butt out! (slang) = Mind your own business!
Dhimma kee beeki.
别插嘴了，管自己！Bié chāzuǐle, guǎn zìjǐ!
That’s none of your affairs. Kun dhimma kee miti.
不关你的事，和你无关！
Bù guān nǐ de shì, hé nǐ wúguān!
Get your nose out of my business. (informal)
Dhimma koo keessa bahi!
别管我的事！Biéguǎn wǒ de shì!
Keep your nose out of my business. (informal)
Dhimma koo irra harka kee kaasi.
4.3.3. When someone is harassing you – angry and direct
Get off my back! (slang) Nan dhiphisiin!
别烦我了！Bié fán wǒle!
Lay off, will you! (slang) Dhiisuu ni dandeessa?
停下来，好吗？Tíng xiàlái, hǎo ma?
Get off my tail! (slang) Nan hordofiin!
别跟着我！Bié gēnzhe wǒ!
Get off my ass! (mildly vulgar) Na dhiisii!
别再管我！Bié zài guǎn wǒ!
Get off it! (slang) Waan argitee hin borchiin.
别胡扯，别瞎说！Bié húchě, bié xiāshuō
Come off it! (slang) Caaldhiste hin odeessin.
Odeessituu! 别胡说了！Bié húshuōle!
4.3.4. When someone is harassing you – rude
Nuts to you. (mildly vulgar) Maaradhu!
祝你疯狂！Zhù nǐ fēngkuáng!
Screw you. (mildly vulgar) Gobamii! 去你的！
168
Up yours. (vulgar) Bollaa lixi, Gadhee!
去你的，见鬼去吧！Qù nǐ de, jiànguǐ qù ba!
4.3.5. When someone is presumptuous
Why would you ask such a thing?
Maalif gaafi akkasi gaafata?
你为什么要问这样问题？
Nǐ wèishéme yào wèn zhèyàng wèntí?
How could you say such a thing?
Ati akkamitti akkas jetta?
你怎么能说这样的话？
Nǐ zěnme néng shuō zhèyàng dehuà?
What right do you have to say that?
Mirgaa maaliin akkas jetta?
你有什么权利这么说？Nǐ yǒu shé me quánlì zhème shuō?
Who gave you the right? Eenyuu mirga sif kenne?
谁给你权利？Shéi gěi nǐ quánlì?
Where do you come off saying that?
Ati eessaa kan akkas jetta?
你从哪里说出来的？Nǐ cóng nǎlǐ shuō chūlái de?
Well, I never! Hanga ammatti hin jiru.
我从来没有。Wǒ cónglái méiyǒu.
4.3.6. When someone has underestimated your intelligence
How dumb do you think I am? (informal)
Doofaa akkamin sitti fakkaadhe?
你觉得我是个笨吗？Nǐ juédé wǒ shìgè bèn ma?
Do you think I was born yesterday? (informal)
Kalleessan dhaladhee sete?
你以为我啥都不知道，对吧？
Nǐ yǐwéi wǒ shà dōu bù zhīdào, duì ba?
Who do you think you’re kidding? (informal)
Eenyuun soban jira sitti fakkaate?
169
你以为你在跟谁开玩笑？
Nǐ yǐwéi nǐ zài gēn shéi kāiwánxiào?
Who do you think you’re talking to? (informal)
Eenyuutti haasa’a akka jirtu beekta?
你以为你在跟谁说话？Nǐ yǐwéi nǐ zài gēn shéi shuōhuà?
4.3.7. When someone interrupts with an opinion
Was I talking to you? Sitti dubbaadherraa?
我在和你说话吗？Wǒ zài hé nǐ shuōhuà ma?
Who asked you? Eenyuu si gaafate?
谁问你呢？Shéi wèn nǐ ne?
I wasn’t speaking to you. An sitti dubbaacha hin jiru.
我没跟你说话。Wǒ méi gēn nǐ shuōhuà.
When I want your opinion, I’ll ask it.
Yaada kee yeroon barbaade sin gaafadha.
Dāng wǒ xūyào nǐ de yìjiàn shí, wǒ huì wèn nǐ de.
When I want your opinion, I’ll beat it out of you. (jocular)
Yeroon yaada kee barbaade, sirraan fudha.
Thank you for sharing. (sarcastic)
Nuuf qooduu keef galatoomi.
谢谢分享！Xièxiè fēnxiǎng!
I’ll thank you to keep your opinions to yourself.
Yaada keef galatoomi, garuu ofummaatti qabadhu.
谢谢，你不要发表意见。Xièxiè, nǐ bùyào fābiǎo yìjiàn.
I’ll thank you to mind your own business!
Dhimma keef bakka lachu keef sin galateefadha.
谢谢，你管好自己的事。Xièxiè, nǐ guǎn hǎo zìjǐ de shì.
Keep your nose out of my business. (informal)
Dhimma koo keessa sin galchuu.
170
Keep your opinions to yourself.
Yaada lachuun sin barbaachisu.
你不要发表意见。Nǐ bùyào fābiǎo yìjiàn.
Mind your own business. Golaa kee cufadhu.
管好你自己的事！Guǎn hǎo nǐ zìjǐ de shì!
4.3.8. When someone overreacts
Relax. Boqodhuu, bashannanii! 放松！
Chill. (informal) Suuta-suuta 冷静一下！
Like it’s such a big deal. (informal)
Wantaa guddaa hin fakkeessin.
就像一件大事的样子。Jiù xiàng yī jiàn dàshì de yàngzi.
It’s no big deal. (informal)
Kun waan guddaa miti.
有什么大不了，有什么了不起。
Yǒu shé me dàbùliǎo, yǒu shé me liǎobùqǐ.
You’re making a mountain out of a molehill.
Wanumaa xiqqoo guddaa taasisa jirta.
小题大做，夸大其词！Xiǎotídàzuò, kuādàqící!
4.4.Jechoota Haqa, dhugaa, adabbii, caaldhessa
4.4.1. When punishment is in store for someone
You’ll get yours. Kan hojii kee ni argata.
你的报应迟早来到。Nǐ de bàoyìng chízǎo lái dào
You’ll get your due. Kan facaaste ni hammata.
一分耕耘一分收获！Yī fēn gēngyún yī fēn shōuhuò!
You’ll get what’s coming to you. Kan harka kee ni argata.
自作自受！Zìzuòzìshòu!
What goes around comes around. (cliché)
Waan gaariin gaarii deebisa, yaaranis yaarumaa ta’a.
恶有恶报，善有善报！È yǒu è bào, shàn yǒu shàn bào!
171
4.4.2. Explaining harsh justice
What goes around comes around. (cliché) Tit for tick!
Kan facaaste haamaata.
一报还一报！Yī bào huán yī bào!
It cuts both ways. (cliché) Bu’aas midhaas qaba.
有利有弊！Yǒulì yǒu bì!
Quid proquo. (Latin) = This for that. Kunis sanaf!
迟早会报！Chízǎo huì bào!
An eye for an eye; a tooth for a tooth.
Iji bakka ija, ilkaanis bakka ilkaanni!
以眼还眼，以牙还牙！
Yǐ yǎn hái yǎn, yǐyáháiyá
The chickens have come home to roost.
Hundii gatii harka isaa ni argata.
终于得到应有的惩罚。
Two can play (at) that game. (informal)
你有一手，我也有一手。Nǐ yǒu yīshǒu, wǒ yěyǒu yīshǒu.
咱们走着瞧。Zánmen zǒuzhe qiáo.
Serves you right. Hojii argate, baga， ishoo!!!
你真活该！Nǐ zhēn huógāi!
4.4.3. Threatening retaliation
I’ll give you a dose of your own medicine. (cliché)
Qorichaa kee sifan qota.
我给你自己开一剂药。Wǒ gěi nǐ zìjǐ kāi yī jì yào.
I’ll fix your wagon. (cliché) Bakkatan si galcha.
我是会修改你的！Wǒ shì huì xiūgǎi nǐ de!
I dare you. Garaan qabdu. Onneen isa si keessa hin jiru.
你敢不敢，我打赌你不敢！
Nǐ gǎn bù gǎn, wǒ dǎdǔ nǐ bù gǎn!
Go ahead, make my day. (cliché)
172
Jalqabibaa, an obsuu hin dandeenye.
动手吧，我求之不得！Dòngshǒu ba, wǒ qiúzhībùdé!
4.4.4. Requesting silence
Quiet! Caaldhisi! 安静！
Be quiet! Caaldhisi! 安静！
Keep quiet! Caaldhisa! 保持安静！
Keep still! Be still Hin sochoo’in! 别动！
Hush! Caaldhisa! 别说话了！
Silence! (formal) caaldhisa. 寂静！
Shut up! (informal) Afaan kee cufi! 闭嘴！
Shut your mouth! (informal) Afaan kee cufi! 闭嘴！
Shut your trap! (informal) Afaan kee cufi! 闭嘴！
Hold your tongue! Hin dubbattin！闭上你的嘴！
Hush your mouth! (informal) Afaan kee cufi. 闭嘴。
Not another word! Kana caala akka hin dubbaane.
别再说了！Bié zàishuōle!
Button your lip! (informal) Akka hin dubbattin. 不再说话！
Clam up! (slang) Suuta, caaldhisa. 闭嘴！
4.4.5. Requesting someone to stop needless talk
Can it! (slang) Cufadhu afaan kee! 别说啦！
Stow it! (slang) Hin haasa’in! 别讲了！
Put a cork in it! (slang) it = your mouth
Afaan kee cuqaladhu. 安静一点！Ānjìng yīdiǎn!
Put a sock in it! (slang) Afaan kee cufadhu!
安静一点！Ānjìng yīdiǎn!
Cut the gab! (slang) gab = needless chatter
Haasa’a hin barbaachisne dhabi! 闭嘴。
Cut the crap! (mildly vulgar) crap = dung = needless chatter
少说废话！ Caaldhiste hin bulga’in!
173
4.4.6. When someone is not doing enough
You’re not doing your share.
Itti gaafatamummaa kee ba’a hin jirtu.
你没有尽到自己的责任。Nǐ méiyǒu jìn dào zìjǐ de zérèn.
You’re not doing your fair share.
Itti gaafatamummaa kee sirritti ba’a hin jirtu.
你没有尽到应有的责任。Nǐ méiyǒu jìn dào yīng yǒu de zérèn.
You’re not carrying your weight.
Wanta sitti kennamee bachaa hin jirtu.
你没有负重。Nǐ méiyǒu fùzhòng.
You’re not pulling your weight.
Itti gaafatamummaa kee ba’achaatti hin jirtu.
你没有尽力。Nǐ méiyǒu jìnlì.
You’re not pulling your own weight.
Itti gaafatamummaa kee ba’a hin jirtu.
你不是在自作主张。Nǐ bùshì zài zìzuò zhǔzhāng.
You’re not living up to your end of the bargain.
Dirqamaa kee ba’a hin jirtu.
你没有做应做的责任。Nǐ méiyǒu zuò yīng zuò de zérèn.
You’re not holding up your end of the bargain.
Dirqamaa kee hangaa xumuraatti ba’a hin jirtu.
你没有全力做到底。Nǐ méiyǒu quánlì zuò dàodǐ.
You’re not reaching your potential.
Akka dandeettii keetti hojjecha hin jirtu.
你没有发挥你的潜力。Nǐ méiyǒu fāhuī nǐ de qiánlì.
Get on the stick. (slang) Itti jabaadhu!
开始工作吧！Kāishǐ gōngzuò ba!
4.4.7. When someone trouble
Stop stirring things up. Hin jeeqin! 别闹了。Bié nàole.
You like to make trouble, don’t you?
Rakkinaa uumu jaallata miti?
174
你喜欢找麻烦，不是吗？
Nǐ xǐhuān zhǎo máfan, bùshì ma?
Don’t you have anything better to do?
Wanta addaa kan hojjetu hin qabdu?
你没有更好事要做吗？
Nǐ méiyǒu gèng hǎoshì yào zuò ma?
You’ve got too much time on your hands.
Yeroo baay’ee qabda fakkaata!
你好像有时间的人。Nǐ hǎoxiàng yǒu shíjiān de rén.
Can’t you leave well enough alone?
Qofatti dhiisu hin dandeessu?
你就不能别管它吗？Nǐ jiù bùnéng biéguǎn tā ma?
4.4.8. Expressing mock sympathy
Aw, poor baby. Daa’ima nama gaddisisu.
哦，可怜的孩子。Ó, kělián de háizi.
You poor thing. Ati baay’ee hiyyeessadha.
你这个可怜的家伙。Nǐ zhège kělián de jiāhuo.
My heart bleeds for you. Baay’ee nama gaddisista.
真可怜,我也为你感到难过。Wǒ yě wèi nǐ gǎndào nánguò.
4.4.9. Expressing mock sympathy – sarcastic
Here’s a quarter. Call someone who cares.
Kan dhimma itti qabu barbaadi.
找更关心的人。Zhǎo gèng guānxīn de rén.
Obviously you’ve mistaken me for someone who cares.
Dogoggoraa na hubaate jirta, dhimma bira.
很明显，你把我错当成了关心我的人。
Hěn míngxiǎn, nǐ bǎ wǒ cuò dàngchéngle guānxīn wǒ de rén.
What makes you think I care?
Maaltu akkan dhimma itti qabu si yaachise!
你凭什么认为我在乎？Nǐ píng shénme rènwéi wǒ zàihū?
Do you think I care? Akka yaadutti dhimman itti qaba?
175
你觉得我在乎吗？Nǐ juédé wǒ zàihū ma?
Like I care. (informal)
Waan an dhimma itti qabu fakkaata.
就像我在乎一样。Jiù xiàng wǒ zàihū yīyàng.
As if I care. (informal)
Wanumma akka ani dhimma itti qabu.
宾果捕手。Bīn guǒ bǔshǒu
Frankly, my dear, I don’t give a damn. (mildly vulgar)
Dhugaan sitti hima miti, dhimma itti hin qabu.
坦白说，亲爱的，我一点也不在乎。
Tǎnbái shuō, qīn'ài de, wǒ yīdiǎn yě bùzàihū.
Good for you. Gaarii sif haa ta’u, baay’ee sif gammada.
真为你高兴！Zhēn wèi nǐ gāoxìng!
I’m happy for you. Waa’ee keef baay’een gammada.
我为你感到高兴。Wǒ wèi nǐ gǎndào gāoxìng.
I’m so glad you told us that. Nutti himu keef galatoomi.
我很高兴你告诉我们。Wǒ hěn gāoxìng nǐ gàosù wǒmen.
4.4.10. When you are helpless to help – rude
What do you want me to do about it?
Maal akka godhu barbaada?
你想让我怎么做？Nǐ xiǎng yào wǒ zuò shénme?
What do you expect me to do about it?
Maal akka hojjedhu barbaada?
你希望我这么做？Nǐ xīwàng wǒ zhème zuò?
What am I supposed to do about it?
Maal akkan hojjedhu fettaa?
你认为我怎么做？Nǐ rènwéi wǒ zěnme zuò?
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Smart Conversation English Afaan Oromoo

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送人玫瑰，余香久远！

Smart Conversation English - Afaan Oromoo & Chinese

Smart American Conversation

Author: Beresa Abebe (毕安)

1.2.6. Inviting friends for drinks or coffee

This is my friend Mary. Kun Hiriyyaa koo Meeriidha.

1.6.3. Expressing acceptance

1.7.2. Stating categorical Disagreement

Tell it to me like a man. (informal)

Don’t tell a soul. => a soul = a person

Have you gone stark raving mad? Ni maraate?

He gets on my nerves. Sammuutti ol na bate jirta.

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