Browse African Slang

A classic pairing meaning a drink and a piece of meat – essentials for a braai. Dop is slang for an alcoholic drink, and...

Joking slang referencing banks (ABSA, Nedbank). To say "I've been ABSA'd" might mean bank charges ate your money or a de...

As hell intensifier

Yes, like the cash machine. In Lesotho slang ATM refers to an older lover who gives you money (a sugar daddy/mommy). Sim...

At this point

An exclamation of frustration or resignation (“oh man!”).

A popular saying reflecting the idea that life in Africa (or South Africa) can be tough and one must be resilient. "Not ...

Instruction to a minibus taxi driver meaning “let me off just after the next traffic light (robot).”

"Ag" (pronounced like a guttural 'ach') is an Afrikaans exclamation meaning "oh" and "man" is added for emphasis. "Ag ma...

An expression of sympathy, endearment, or mild pity. Often used when seeing something adorable or hearing unfortunate ne...

An exclamation of dismay, frustration or awe (from Afrikaans "ai" meaning oh). Drawn out like "Ai yai yai", it conveys b...

Strong “no” / absolutely not.

A strong objection or disbelief meaning "No way, you!" or "Absolutely not." "Aikona" (also "Haikhona") is from Zulu, mea...

To “play smart” or pretend to be busy when you’re not (from Yoruba name stereotype).

A fun Tsotsi-taal phrase referring to dancing or partying (literally "the get-downs"). It implies having a groove or goi...

A stylish or impressive women’s hairstyle. (Origin: Tsotsitaal, from Zulu)

Racist dig = huge no-no

A phrase meaning “Do you understand or agree with what I said?” (often used by speakers to check if others are following...

A phrase used after a heavy blow or shocking event, meaning utterly confused about one's identity or orientation. The fu...

A uniquely South African simile meaning utterly confused. It paints a funny image: a chameleon (which changes color) on ...

A derogatory term for a sex worker or promiscuous woman. (Also used more playfully in songs).

A euphemism for soliciting a small bribe. In some contexts (like a traffic stop), a person in authority might say "Can I...

An Afrikaans-derived way to say "sorry" or "excuse me." It's a casual apology, often used after bumping into someone or ...

Attractive individuals (often women) hired to enhance and elevate the vibe, energy, and aesthetic of an event simply thr...

A facetious term for a smack intended to set someone straight. Klap means slap, so an "attitude adjustment klap" is the ...

A young man or lad (from Sotho *buti*, brother). (Origin: Tsotsitaal, Sotho)

Friendly greeting to a group of guys.

Expression of greeting / agreement ("hey", "cool").

A casual greeting and exclamation of excitement among friends. "Aweh" (also spelled awe) is like saying "hey" or "cool,"...

An exclamation used mostly in a teasing way when someone is about to get into trouble or faces consequences. It's like s...