door_open How to say
Welcome in Fon: Kwabɔ
In Benin, welcoming someone is sacred. Kwabɔ is the universal way to say welcome in fɔ̀ngbè, but there are variants depending on the context.
schedule 4 min
signal_cellular_alt Beginner
1
Standard
Kwabɔ
Kwabɔ !
Welcome!
KwabɔWelcome — said by the host to someone arriving
AlsoUsed to say thank you
ReplyYoo / Ɛ́ɛ̀n
GestureHands joined or arms open
2
Home
At home
Kwabɔ ɖò xwé mìWelcome to our home
Ðù ahànHave something to drink
Ðù sìnDrink some water (the first gesture)
Sí tɛ́nSit down
A wǎ ganjiYou are most welcome
Kwabɔ ɖò xwé mì
Welcome to our house
3
Country
In Benin
Kwabɔ ɖò Bénin toweWelcome to Benin
A wǎ kpó ahànYou’ve arrived safely
Hùn-gǎn nú wePeace be upon you
A nyɔ́You are beautiful/handsome (a welcoming compliment)
Tradition
In Benin, people offer water to visitors as a sign of welcome, even if they haven’t asked for it. Refusing = disrespect. Accept, even just a sip.
A sacred welcome
Kwabɔ + a glass of water = the complete welcome in Fon. Universal, warm, simple.
à ≠ ǎ
One tone, and everything changes
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