With just days to go before the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, it's the perfect time to embrace South Africa's vibrant culture. While the country boasts 12 official languages, there's a 13th, unofficial language that everyone loves: South African slang.
Known as the Rainbow Nation for its diversity, South Africans have created a lively vocabulary that's as colorful as the country itself. Whether you're a summit delegate, a digital nomad in Maboneng, or a traveller on the Garden Route, sound like a local with this A-Z guide:
- Aweh (A): A versatile greeting that can mean hey, cool, or yes.
- Babbelas (B): The dreaded hangover after a night out.
- Braai (B): A barbecue, often the heart of social gatherings.
- China (C): Mate or buddy, borrowed from township slang.
- Dop (D): An alcoholic drink or the act of drinking.
- Eish (E): An exclamation of surprise, frustration, or disbelief.
- Fundi (F): Someone who knows their stuff, a skilled person.
- Gatvol (G): Fed up or completely done with something.
- Howzit (H): How are you doing? A classic greeting.
- Ikasi (I): The township or local neighborhood.
- Jol (J): To have fun or the event itself, like a party.
- Lekker (L): Nice, tasty, or generally good.
- Mzansi (M): A popular nickname for South Africa.
- Now now (N): Soon, but not immediately.
- O'wire (O): Feeling tired or exhausted.
- Pertairie (P): Wasted, usually from drinking or partying.
- Randi (R): Slang for the South African rand currency.
- Sho't left (S): A short trip, often by minibus taxi.
- Takkies (T): Sneakers or sports shoes.
- Ubuntu (U): I am because we are, a spirit of community.
- Veld (V): Open grassland or countryside.
- Work for nothing (W): Free of charge, no payment expected.
- Xhosa (X): Refers to the Xhosa language or culture, but used affectionately.
- Yebo (Y): Yes, absolutely.
- Zol (Z): A cannabis cigarette.
With this A-Z in your back pocket, you'll be ready to chat, laugh, and connect like a true local. Enjoy the G20 Summit, explore the Rainbow Nation, and embrace the slang that brings South Africa to life.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
