Question Words in Yoruba: Kí, Ta, Níbo and More
The main Yoruba question words and how to ask yes or no questions.
Questions are the quickest way to start a conversation.
The main question words
| Yoruba | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Kí ni? | what |
| Ta ni? | who |
| Níbo ni? | where |
| Ìgbà wo? | when |
| Kí ló dé? | why |
| Báwo? | how |
| Mélòó? | how many, how much |
| Èwo? | which |
| Èló? | how much (price) |
Examples
- Kí ni èyí? What is this?
- Ta ni ẹ? Who are you?
- Níbo ni ẹ ń gbé? Where do you live?
- Ìgbà wo ni ẹ máa dé? When will you arrive?
- Kí ló dé tí ẹ fi ń kọ́ Yorùbá? Why are you learning Yoruba?
- Èló ni èyí? How much is this?
Yes or no questions
Begin with ṣé:
- Ṣé o fẹ́ omi? Do you want water?
- Ṣé ẹ gbọ́ Yorùbá? Do you understand Yoruba?
Answers
- Bẹ́ẹ̀ni, yes
- Bẹ́ẹ̀kọ́, no
- Mi ò mọ̀, I don't know
Word order
The question word often comes at the start, with ni following to give focus.
Tag questions
- …àbí? (…right?) at the end: O ti jẹun, àbí? You have eaten, right?
Politeness
Add ẹ jọ̀ọ́ (please) when asking a stranger.
- Ẹ jọ̀ọ́, níbo ni ọjà wà? Please, where is the market?
Tips
- Learn the nine question words.
- Start yes/no questions with ṣé.
- Use the dictionary to check meanings.
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