15 October is Diwrnod Shwmae Su’mae, a day to celebrate the Welsh language and, most importantly, to have a go at using Welsh!
But what exactly is Shwmae Su’mae?
Quite simply, “Shwmae?” and “Su’mae?” are informal ways of starting a conversation in Welsh. Shwmae is used mainly in the south, while Su’mae is more commonly heard in the north.
The aim is simple: start a conversation in Welsh.
You don’t have to be fluent. You don’t need to know lots of words. And you certainly don’t need to worry about getting everything perfect.
Give it a go!
Welsh is for everyone!
Diwrnod Shwmae Su’mae is an opportunity for everyone, everywhere, to celebrate Welsh – whether you use it at home with your family, are learning Welsh here at Ysgol Sadwrn with us, or simply know a few Welsh words already.
Wherever you are in the world, why not say “Shwmae!” to a friend or teacher at school, answer a question in Welsh, or teach someone a new Welsh word to help them get to know the language?
You don’t have to live in Wales to celebrate Welsh. Welsh is for everyone who uses it, learns it and enjoys it.
A little challenge for 15 October
Here’s a challenge from Ysgol Sadwrn:
Can you start three conversations in Welsh on Diwrnod Shwmae Su’mae?
It could be:
- Saying “Bore da!” to a parent in the morning and having a little conversation in Welsh over breakfast.
- Saying “Shwmae?” to a friend at school and teaching them a few Welsh words.
- Sending a text message in Welsh to a family member.
- Reading a Welsh story to a brother or sister, grandparent, or another family member.
- Using one new Welsh word or phrase during your day.
And remember – it doesn’t matter if you make a mistake. Every conversation is another opportunity to practise, learn and build confidence.
So, wherever you are in the world, why not join us on 15 October?
Shwmae! Su’mae! Rho gynnig arni!
shwmae.cymru
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