Language/Somali/Vocabulary/Directions-and-Locations
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As a Somali language teacher with 20 years of experience, I am excited to teach you Somali vocabulary related to directions and locations. Knowing directions and locations is important for everyday life, especially when you travel to new places. In this lesson, you will learn how to ask and give directions in Somali, as well as the vocabulary for compass directions and common landmarks.
Don't miss the chance to check out these pages as you wrap up this lesson: Numbers 1 20 & Introducing Yourself.
Compass Directions
Knowing the compass directions is essential when asking and giving directions. Below are the Somali words for the four main compass directions:
| Somali | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| inta xaggaga ugu jirta | in-tah hah-gah-gah oo-goo jeer-tah | North |
| inta koonfurta ugu jirta | in-tah koon-foor-tah oo-goo jeer-tah | South |
| inta galbeedka ugu jirta | in-tah gahl-bay-dkah oo-goo jeer-tah | West |
| inta waqooyiga ugu jirta | in-tah wah-koh-yee-gah oo-goo jeer-tah | East |
Remember the pronunciation of Somali vowels is different than in English. "A", for example, is pronounced "ah" instead of "ay".
You may also encounter the following words to describe directions:
| Somali | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| hoose | ho-oh-seh | down |
| kowad | koh-wud | up |
| gar | gar | near |
| joogti | joog-tee | far |
Asking for Directions
If you're lost and need help finding your way, use the following phrases to ask for directions:
- Marbaa fadlan, miyaad u soo dhowaadaa? = Excuse me, can you please come here?
- Fadlan, maxaad ii sheegtay inaan ku yar yahay jiritaanka xaggaga? = Can you please tell me which direction north is?
- Waxaan rabaa inaan ku soo dhowaado, maxaad igu tiri kartaan? = I need to go somewhere, can you tell me how to get there?
Remember to use "fadlan" which means "please" and "maxaad igu tiri" which translates to "can you tell me" in Somali to form a polite request.
Giving Directions
If you need to give directions, use the following phrases:
- Halkan ka carso, intaas kadib hoos u soo laabaa = Go straight ahead and then turn right at the next corner.
- Markale isku day magacaaga, dabcan waxaad barataa = Continue until you see your destination on the left.
- Ka fikir casharo ku xoogsaday inay tahay jidadkaaga = Follow the red signs to get to your destination.
Remember to use the imperative verb form for direction phrases in Somali, such as "ka carso" (go straight) and "isku day" (continue).
Landmarks
Landmarks are important when giving or receiving directions. Below are some common landmarks you may encounter while navigating Somali cities:
| Somali | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| guri yar | goo-ri yar | House |
| jaango | jah-ngoh | Bridge |
| shish | shih-sh | Factory |
| suuq | soo-ook | Market |
These landmarks are often used to provide specific directions, such as "turn right at the market" or "go straight ahead until you see the factory".
Conclusion
Knowing how to ask for and give directions in Somali is an essential skill for everyday life. By using the vocabulary and phrases learned in this lesson, you will be able to navigate Somali cities and find your way with ease. Keep practicing and learning new Somali words and phrases, and you'll be speaking like a native in no time!
Well done on mastering this lesson! Don't miss these related pages to expand your knowledge: Telling Time & Clothes.
Other Lessons
- Fruits
- Family Members
- Drinks
- Days of the Week
- Colors
- Geography
- Seasons
- Food
- Education
- Express Surprise
Sources
- Learn Somali - Teach Yourself Somali (Beginners Audio Book) by ...
- Learn Somali (Teach Yourself Somali, Beginners Audio Book ...
- Somali Directions Flashcards | Quizlet
| ◀️ Modes of Transportation — Previous Lesson | Next Lesson — Geography of Somalia ▶️ |