As 2017 approaches, Ethiopians are sharing their New Year's resolutions with a twist. A strange phrase has caught the attention of social media users and has quickly gone viral: "How to cook your lover for the 2017 New Year."

While the expression is clearly a mistranslation or a play on words, it has sparked a wave of humor and creativity online. Language experts suggest that the phrase might be a result of confusion between similar-sounding words in Amharic, possibly mixing up "cook" with "treat" or "pamper."

Despite its odd nature, the trending phrase has opened up discussions about relationships and New Year's traditions in Ethiopia. Many are using it as a springboard to talk about how they plan to nurture their relationships in the coming year, albeit in less culinary terms.

Local comedians and social media influencers have seized upon the trend, creating memes and skits that playfully explore the literal interpretation of the phrase. Some restaurants have even created special "lover's menus" as a tongue-in-cheek reference to the viral saying.

As the New Year approaches, it's clear that Ethiopians are entering 2017 with a sense of humor and a willingness to laugh at linguistic mix-ups. Whether it's cooking for your lover or simply treating them well, the trend has certainly added a dash of spice to the usual New Year's conversations.