20 Slang Words That Will Make You Sound Like a Ghanaian
Master the lingo and blend in with locals using these essential Ghanaian slang words.
Introduction to Ghanaian Slang
Ghanaian slang is a vibrant and colorful part of everyday communication in Ghana. Whether you’re visiting the bustling markets of Accra, relaxing on the beaches of Cape Coast, or exploring the vibrant nightlife, understanding local slang can help you connect with Ghanaians on a deeper level. This guide will introduce you to 20 popular Ghanaian slang words and phrases that will make you sound like a true local.
1. Chale / Charlie / Charley
One of the most widely used Ghanaian slang words is chale (pronounced ‘char-ley’). This term is used to address a friend or acquaintance, similar to ‘buddy’ or ‘mate’ in English. It’s a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, from casual greetings to friendly banter. For example, you might hear someone say, ‘Chale, how far?’ which means ‘Hey, how are you doing?’
2. Comot
Comot is a word borrowed from Nigerian Pidgin but is commonly used in Ghana. It means ‘move’ or ‘go away.’ You might hear someone say, ‘Comot for der!’ which translates to ‘Move from there!’ or ‘Go away!’ In a more casual context, it can be used to suggest leaving a place, such as ‘Chale comot, make we go’ meaning ‘Dude, let’s go.’
3. Yawa Dey
Yawa dey is a Pidgin phrase that means ‘there is a problem’ or ‘something is not good.’ If something goes wrong, you might hear someone exclaim, ‘Chale, yawa dey oooo!’ The ‘ooo’ at the end is used to emphasize the seriousness of the situation. The response to this phrase is often ‘Weh yawa?’ meaning ‘What happened?’
4. Abeg
Abeg is a word that literally means ‘I beg’ but is used to mean ‘please’ in Ghanaian English. You might hear someone say, ‘Abeg, how much be the mango?’ when asking for the price of a mango at the market. It can be used in any situation where you want to be polite, such as ‘Abeg, what be the time?’
5. Abi?
Abi? is a rhetorical word used at the end of a sentence to ask for agreement or confirmation. It’s derived from Nigerian Pidgin but is widely used in Ghana. For example, ‘The thing no be easy, abi?’ means ‘It’s not easy, right?’ This word is a great way to engage in conversation and show that you’re interested in the other person’s opinion.
6. I’m Coming
I’m coming is a phrase that can be confusing for non-locals. In Ghana, it doesn’t mean that you are arriving somewhere; instead, it means ‘give me a second’ or ‘I’m on my way.’ If someone is in the middle of something and you ask them a question, they might respond with ‘I’m coming’ to indicate that they will attend to you shortly. It’s also used when someone is leaving a place, such as ‘I’m coming’ as they start walking away.
7. Goro
Goro refers to informal business or entrepreneurial activities in Ghana. It can include street vendors, small businesses, and other informal sector jobs. If you’re visiting a local market, you might hear someone say, ‘I’m doing goro’ to indicate that they are running a small business. This word is a great way to understand the local economy and the entrepreneurial spirit of Ghanaians.
8. Dash Me
Dash me is a phrase used when someone expects you to give them a gift, either monetary or otherwise. It’s a common way to ask for a favor or a small present. For example, if someone says, ‘Dash me,’ they are asking you to give them something, often in a friendly and playful manner.
9. Paa
Paa is used to add emphasis to whatever you’re saying. It’s similar to saying ‘really’ or ‘very’ in English. For example, ‘Ekom di mi paa’ means ‘I am really hungry.’ Sometimes you might even hear ‘papaaapa’ for extra emphasis. This word is a great way to express strong feelings or emotions.
10. Chop
To chop means to eat in Ghanaian slang. You might hear someone ask, ‘You chop?’ which means ‘Have you eaten?’ Chop bars are local food joints that serve affordable local dishes. If you visit a chop bar, you should try akpeteshi, a Ghanaian spirit made from fermented palm wine. It’s pretty strong, so be warned!
11. Oga
Oga is a title of respect, usually for a boss or someone in authority. It’s borrowed from Nigerian Pidgin and is often used sarcastically when someone is acting bigger than they are. For example, ‘Oga, make you no vex’ means ‘Boss, please don’t be angry.’
12. Nibbies
Nibbies means ‘stuff’ or ‘things’ in Pidgin English. You might hear someone say, ‘Charley, where my nibbies dey?’ which translates to ‘Friend, where are my things?’ This word is useful when you’re looking for something and want to ask for help.
13. Do Am Momo
Do am momo means ‘Do it mobile money.’ This phrase is used when someone is being offered a gift or compliment but would prefer it if it was mobile money instead. For example, if you receive birthday wishes but prefer monetary gifts, you can jokingly say, ‘Do am momo!’
14. Di Asa
Di asa is a slang term that originated from a dance TV show on Atinka TV in Ghana. It is often used to body shame plus-size women, but it can also be used on skinny women to denote the opposite of their physique. This term is generally considered fatphobic and should be used with caution.
15. Happy Birthday
Happy birthday is not always used to wish someone a happy birthday in Ghana. It is often used sarcastically to indicate that someone is living good in the moment. For example, if you see someone eating an expensive meal with a chilled drink, you might say, ‘Happy birthday!’ to mean ‘You’re living life like it’s your birthday.’
16. Ei!
Ei! is a versatile slang term that can express surprise, shock, or astonishment. It’s often used when something unexpected or remarkable happens. For example, if you’re haggling over a price and the seller says ‘Ei,’ they are surprised by how low the price is. It can also be used to draw attention to something.
17. Obolo
Obolo is a Ghanaian slang term that refers to someone who is chubby or curvy. In Ghanaian culture, this is not considered derogatory and is often seen as a sign of living well and being well-to-do. This term is commonly used to identify someone if you don’t know their name.
18. Chalewotey
Chalewotey is a Ga term that means ‘my friend, let’s go.’ It is often used to describe flip-flops, which are easy to wear and take off. The word combines ‘chale’ (friend) and ‘wote’ (let’s go), making it a perfect description for the ease with which flip-flops are worn.
19. Chao
Chao means ‘a lot’ or ‘plenty’ in Ghanaian slang. You might hear someone say, ‘Chao money’ to mean ‘a lot of money.’ This word is useful when you want to emphasize quantity or abundance.
20. Cho
Cho means ‘food’ in Ghanaian slang. You might hear someone ask, ‘Where de cho dey?’ which translates to ‘Where is the food?’ This word is commonly used in casual conversations about meals and eating.
FAQs About Ghanaian Slang
- Q: Is Ghanaian slang the same across all regions?
A: While many slang words are widely used across Ghana, some terms may vary by region or ethnic group. It’s always a good idea to listen to locals and adapt your language accordingly.
- Q: Can I use Ghanaian slang in formal settings?
A: Ghanaian slang is best used in casual and informal settings. In formal situations, it’s advisable to use standard English to avoid misunderstandings.
- Q: Are there any slang words I should avoid?
A: Some slang words, like ‘di asa,’ can be considered offensive or fatphobic. It’s important to be mindful of the context and the people you’re speaking with to avoid causing offense.
Conclusion
Understanding Ghanaian slang is a great way to connect with locals and immerse yourself in Ghanaian culture. By learning these 20 popular slang words and phrases, you’ll be able to communicate more effectively and make the most of your time in Ghana. Whether you’re shopping at a local market, enjoying a meal at a chop bar, or simply chatting with friends, these slang words will help you sound like a true Ghanaian.
