How to Say “Thank You” in Igbo — Daalụ or Imela?

Ndeewo! 🌟

Welcome back to Lingawa, your home for fun, culture-rich Igbo lessons. Today, we’re exploring one of the most powerful phrases in any language—“thank you.”

In Igbo, saying thank you goes beyond words. It’s about showing gratitude, honoring kindness, and building community. So, whether you’re thanking someone for holding a door or saving your day, this quick lesson will help you say it just right.

🙏🏾 Two Ways to Say Thank You in Igbo

There are two main ways to say “thank you” in Igbo:

✅ Daalụ

Simple. Sincere. Everyday.
Perfect for daily interactions—polite, respectful, and warmly received.

Example:
Someone hands you your phone? Daalụ.

🌟 Imela

Deeper. More emotional.
Imela means “you have done well” and is often used when someone goes above and beyond.

Example:
Someone helps you during a hard time? Imela.
🎶 (Yes, like the song… “Imelaaaaaa…”) 🎵

🗣 Practice Saying It Out Loud!

Let’s say them together:

Daalụ – “Thank you” (for daily use)
Imela – “Thank you” (with heartfelt appreciation)

Repeat a few times and notice how each one feels. You’re already sounding more fluent! ✨

🎥 Watch It In Action: A Lingawa Tutor Breaks It Down

Want to hear what Daalụ and Imela sound like in real conversation?
Check out this quick video from one of our Lingawa tutors! They’ll walk you through:

The correct pronunciation
When to use each phrase
Real-life expressions to help it stick

👉🏾 Watch the Lesson Now – It’s under 2 minutes!

Seeing and hearing it in action makes all the difference!

🧾 Everyday Igbo Gratitude — Real-Life Examples

Here’s how to know which phrase fits:

💚 Example 1:

Someone holds the door for you?
→ Daalụ.

💛 Example 2:

You’re struggling with grocery bags, and someone helps you?
→ Imela. (Because it meant a lot!)

❤️ Example 3:

It’s your birthday, and someone gifts you your dream car?
→ IMELA! (Shout it loud and proud.)

🌍 Why “Thank You” Is a Big Deal in Igbo Culture

In Igbo culture, gratitude is more than good manners—it’s a core value. When you say Daalụ or Imela, you’re doing more than speaking the language. You’re showing: