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Jamaican Patois Phrases

Jamaican Language

By Kevin Ai Published 10 months ago 2 min read
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Jamaican Patois is a vibrant and colorful creole language spoken in Jamaica. Here are some commonly used Jamaican Patois phrases along with their English translations:

  1. Wah gwaan? - What's going on? / What's up?
  2. Mi deh yah - I am here.
  3. Big up - To give someone praise or recognition.
  4. Wh'appen? - What's happening? / What's going on?
  5. Likkle more - See you later / Goodbye (literally "little more").
  6. Mi deh ya - I am here.
  7. Yuh good? - Are you okay? / How are you?
  8. No problem mon - No worries / It's okay.
  9. Bless up - To wish someone well or to send blessings their way.
  10. Mi soon come - I will be there soon (literally "I'm soon coming").
  11. Mi deh pon di case - I am on the case / I am working on it.
  12. Wah yuh seh? - What did you say? / What do you mean?
  13. Mi run tings - I am in charge / I am in control.
  14. Respect - A way of showing appreciation or acknowledgement.
  15. Nuff respect - Much respect / Thank you very much.
  16. Wha' mek? - What happened? / Why?
  17. Mek we - Let's go / Let's do it.
  18. Gwaan so - That's how it is / That's how things are.
  19. Yuh chat too much - You talk too much.
  20. Ah who dat? - Who is that?
  21. small up yuhself Meaning: Move over or make room Example: Small up yuhself pon di bench. (Move over on the bench.)
  22. Wah yuh deh pon? Meaning: What are you up to? Example: Wah yuh deh pon fi di weekend? (What are you up to for the weekend?)
  23. No sah! - Wow! / Oh my! (expression of surprise or disbelief).
  24. Mi rate yuh - I respect/admire you.
  25. Mi cyaan badda - I can't be bothered.
  26. Mi a go hol' a vibe - I am going to have fun / Enjoy myself.
  27. Mi nuh know - I don't know.

Please note that the spelling and pronunciation of these phrases may vary as Patois is more of an oral tradition rather than a standardized written language. Additionally, be mindful of using Patois respectfully and appropriately, as it is an integral part of Jamaican culture and identity.

By Joey Nicotra on Unsplash

History

Jamaica was originally inhabited by the Arawak and Taino peoples, who were later enslaved by European colonizers. The island gained independence from Britain in 1962 and has since developed a unique cultural identity.

Music

Reggae music, made famous by artists like Bob Marley, has become synonymous with Jamaican culture. The genre originated in the 1960s and is known for its distinctive rhythm and socially conscious lyrics.

Food

Jamaican cuisine is a blend of African, European, and indigenous influences. Jerk chicken, ackee and saltfish, and curry goat are popular dishes that reflect the island's diverse cultural heritage.

Fun in Jamaica

Dunn's River Falls

Climb the iconic waterfall and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding rainforest.

By T on Unsplash

Blue Lagoon

Swim in the crystal-clear waters of this natural lagoon, surrounded by lush greenery.

Seven Mile Beach

Relax on the white sand and swim in the turquoise waters of this famous beach.

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