Language the principal method of human communication, consisting of words used in a structured and conventional way and conveyed by speech, writing, or gesture. Nigerian Pidgin, often called Naija or Naijá, is an English-based creole language spoken as a lingua franca across Nigeria.
History of Naijá Pidgin
Where did it Originated? West African Pidgin English, also called Guinea Coast Creole English, was a language of commerce spoken along the coast during the Atlantic slave trade in the late 17th and 18th Centuries. This allowed British slave merchants and local African traders to conduct business. It later spread to other parts of the West African colonies, becoming a useful trade language among local ethnic groups who spoke different languages.
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Popular Pidgin words
Nigeria with a population index of of over 200 million people, 250-300 ethnic groups, all speaking different languages, but are primarily linked with the use of Pidgin in their day-to-day interactions. Learining of Pidging is completely optional but can help in relating with friends especially across Nigeria.
I will educating us on the popular Nàijà words and it's literally translation in English.
- How you dey? Meaning, How are you.
- We're you go? Meaning, were are you going to
- You Don chop? Meaning have you eaten.
- Waiting dèy dó you? Meaning What's wrong with you.
- You tòò much. Meaning, you are kind
- Wìçh level? Meaning, On what ground
- Wáiting dey süp? Meaning, what's the matter?
- Na Sô. Meaning, Concordance (agreement)
- Nóthìng spóíl Meaning, it's well or it's okay.
- Hë dõn set Meaning, it's ready
- Comōt. Meaning, leave
- Abég. Meaning, Please
- Yôu tòó knøw. Meaning, You are too proud.
- Area boy. Meaning, jester, chown
- Put yóur head down. Meaning be calm
- Wáyó. Meaning, trickery
- Go Slow. Meaning, traffic Jam
- Gîve me. Meaning, hand it over to me
- K-leg. Meaning, expression of doubt.
Conclusion
The Nigerian Pidgin is dynamic in nature, meaning it changes via context, Sometimes, if you don't have a word for something, you can just create an onomatopoeic sound and just express yourself. And it will be appreciated and understood. * Learning is a continuous process and language is a key part of learning.*
If you are interested in learning a new Nàîjà words just comment in English and I will help translate.