What is the most common Jamaican greeting?
‘Wah Gwaan’. This is probably the most well known Jamaican greeting and was even used by US President Barack Obama during his inaugural visit to Jamaica. Wah Gwaan is a casual greeting to enquire how somebody is or what’s up.
What kind of English do Jamaicans speak?
Speak Jamaican. We Jamaicans speak a unique version of English like no one else in the world. Below is a sampling of what some “English experts” have labeled “patois” but what we Jamaicans call “Real English”. “A fe me cyar.”.
What does small up Yuhself mean in Jamaican?
‘Small up yuhself’ A useful expression to know when using crowded buses or taxis; Small up yuhself quite literally means to make some room. This Jamaican expression means literally: I’ll be right there. Literally translated as ‘what are you saying’, but actually meaning ‘how are you doing’. Used when saying goodbye.
What does it mean to be a fearless person in Jamaica?
In a land where superstition reigns by day and duppies (spirits) haunt by night, religion is more than just saying your prayers before you go to bed in Jamaica. This expression implies a fearless person overcoming obstacles and difficulties.
What does weh yuh deh pon mean?
“what are you up toThis common expression is most often used to greet a friend. It means “what are you up to” or “what are you going to do”. So, next time you're here, impress your Hedo friends with this classic Jamaican greeting!
What are some Jamaican slang words?
18 Jamaican Patois Phrases Translated to EnglishI Will Be Right Back – Mi Soon Come.To Eat – Nyam.Jamaica – Jamrock, Jamdown, Yard.Jamaican – Yardie, Yard man.Friend – Bredren (male), Sistren (female)Well Done – Big up, Respect.Excellent – Sell off, Tun up, Wicked.What's up? – Wah gwaan, Whappen, Whe yu a seh?More items...
What does putus mean in Jamaica?
Meaning/Description: sweetheart, honey bunch. An affectionate term.
What does licky licky mean in Jamaican?
You too Licky Licky. You Never Want a Jamaican to call you “Licky Licky” This is similar to beggy beggy but is usually in reference to someone who shows greedy tendencies and will quickly compromise their morals for material gain.
What does PON mean in Jamaica?
pon (Conjunction) Meaning/Description: on.
What does shotta mean in Jamaica?
An armed gangstershotta (plural shottas) (Jamaican, slang) An armed gangster.
What does Braff mean in Jamaica?
Braff – To be Boastful Created and popularized by Dancehall artiste Teejay, when a Jamaican is “braff-ing” they are being boastful. Jamaicans “braff” for every and any reason, therefore, this term can be used in several contexts; each person decides whatever personal success is “braff– worthy”.
What does Maga mean in Jamaica?
Mauger, the Jamaican Patois word for 'meagre', is a term used in rural Jamaica for a thin woman.