Communication Habits of Eritrean Women: Tradition Meets Modernity

Introduction: Understanding Eritrean Women's Communication

Communication in Eritrea is deeply rooted in cultural respect, tradition, and social harmony. Eritrean women, like men, use various languages such as Tigrinya, Arabic, and English, depending on the setting. Eritrean women’s communication styles reflect the importance of family values, hierarchy, and respect for elders. As Eritrea modernizes, younger women are increasingly adopting a more casual, globalized communication style, while older generations maintain a more traditional approach.

Communication Habits by Age Group

12-18 Years Old

Teenage Eritrean girls often communicate with their peers using a casual tone, frequently mixing Tigrinya and English, especially in urban areas. Common greetings include "Selam" (Hello) or "Kemo kemey" (How are you?). Social media heavily influences this age group, and slang phrases are popular in casual conversations. However, when addressing elders, more formal language is used, such as "Enda aytew" (Excuse me), demonstrating the importance of respect in Eritrean culture.

19-29 Years Old

Women in their twenties are navigating a balance between traditional expectations and modern influences. In formal settings, politeness and respect are emphasized, with phrases like "Yekenyeley" (Thank you) or "Keede emts'u" (Goodbye). In social circles, casual language such as "What’s up?" or "Lomi" (Today) is common. This group also values indirect communication, often using expressions to soften requests or convey ideas subtly, especially in professional or family settings.

30-39 Years Old

By their thirties, many Eritrean women take on more family and community responsibilities. Their communication style shifts towards being more authoritative and guiding. In this age group, proverbs and traditional expressions become more common. Phrases like "Amselekhi" (Be patient) are frequently used when offering advice or comfort. The language remains formal in both personal and professional settings, reflecting the cultural emphasis on maintaining harmony and respect.

40 Years Old and Above

Older Eritrean women command deep respect in their communities and families. They often speak in a measured, thoughtful way, using proverbs to impart wisdom. Common phrases like "Hiji ms kidan" (Time will tell) reflect the patience and life experience of this age group. Silence can also be an essential part of communication, as older women may pause to reflect before responding. Their communication often focuses on nurturing family bonds and maintaining cultural traditions.

Common Phrases and Expressions by Age Group

12-18 Years Old

• "Selam" – Hello; used casually among friends.
• "Kemo kemey" – How are you?; a friendly inquiry.
• "Bziat kemey" – What’s new?; informal among peers.
• "Enda aytew" – Excuse me; used when addressing elders.
• "Mekhti" – Let’s go; used when making plans with friends.

19-29 Years Old

• "Yekenyeley" – Thank you; polite expression.
• "Keede emts'u" – Goodbye; formal parting.
• "What’s up?" – Common English greeting among friends.
• "Tsefaye" – Relax; informal reassurance.
• "Lomi" – Today; used in everyday conversations.

30-39 Years Old

• "Amselekhi" – Be patient; offering comfort or advice.
• "Nsu abza" – She’s in charge; showing respect in professional settings.
• "Mefet" – Success; congratulating someone.
• "Tsebah" – Dawn; metaphorical for new beginnings.
• "Serih" – Calm; a reminder to stay composed.

40 Years Old and Above

• "Hiji ms kidan" – Time will tell; offering wisdom and patience.
• "Gedifka" – Take it easy; used to calm someone.
• "Merhawit" – Peace; reflects a wish for harmony.
• "Zehaf" – Courage; encouragement during difficult times.
• "Yihyeley" – May it be; expressing hope or a wish.

Conclusion: Effective Communication with Eritrean Women

When communicating with Eritrean women, it’s important to be respectful and polite, especially when speaking with older women. Understanding the role of tradition, patience, and hierarchy in their communication will enhance interactions. Being mindful of non-verbal cues and using appropriate greetings or phrases can help bridge cultural gaps. Eritrean women’s communication often balances formality with warmth, making genuine connections crucial for successful conversations.