How to Translate English to Somali (Not "Somalian")

The language is called Somali (af-Soomaali), not "Somalian." Here are reliable translation options:

Free Online Tools

• Google Translate (translate.google.com / app): Text, voice, camera, offline download
• Microsoft Translator (bing.com/translator / app): Good for conversations, phrasebooks
• DeepL (deepl.com): Not yet supporting Somali (as of 2024)

Specialized Resources

• Qaamuuska Af-Soomaaliga (online Somali dictionary)
• Somali-English / English-Somali dictionaries (apps: "Somali Dictionary", "English Somali Translator")
• African language platforms: Kasahorow, BantuWeb

Human Translation

• Professional agencies (for legal, medical, business)
• Community organizations (refugee/immigrant services)
• Freelance platforms (Upwork, ProZ) — verify credentials

Basic Phrases

• Hello: Salaan / Maalin wanaagsan
• How are you?: Sidee tahay?
• Thank you: Mahadsanid
• Yes/No: Haa / Maya

Somali is a Cushitic language (Afro-Asiatic) with 20M+ speakers in Somalia, Somaliland, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, and diaspora.