In Somali, the word 'walaal' can mean 'brother' or 'sister'. How do Somalis tell the difference? Largely by context. However, you can also distinguish them by the different definite articles,
Walaalka - the brother
Walaasha - the sister
'Walaal' is used not only for blood brothers/sisters, but for people generally in society.
(At a Somali restaurant table)
Walaal, ii dhiib mileexda - Pass me the salt
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