Browse African Slang

Disc jockey tunes (DJ set)

Used for 'that/it.' Also forms the verb 'to be': Da me (It's me), Da na me (That is mine).

Standard response to "How are you?" meaning "I'm fine

Colloquial question meaning 'Is that true?' or 'Are you serious?' Often said with playful skepticism.

Means 'that's a lie' or 'no way.' Often said as an exclamation if something is surprising: 'Da lie-oh!'.

“It’s me.” (used to identify oneself)

Means 'that's my thing/I'm good at that.' Claiming competence or strong interest.

Used to downplay something that's actually big, often sarcastically: 'It's not a small thing' meaning it's a big deal. O...

Literally 'that man,' used as a familiar reference like 'dude/bro.' Can refer to a man of the moment or a friend.

Stupid/Foolish (Dumb/Silly)

Storm approaching (Rain clouds)

Means 'a tip' or small gift (from French dacher). To dash someone is to give a little something extra as appreciation or...

Expensive

Customer need/Want (Demand)

Build country (Develop Liberia)

Progress discussion (Development talk)

Eating schedule (Diet plan)

Various; all kinds of

Perform/Act (Do it)

Ruthless competition (Survival of fittest)

No trash throwing (Don't litter)

Take education seriously (Value school)

Don't see we (Expression)

Means 'don't be angry' or 'sorry' as an apology.

Use time well (No procrastination)

Used before a verb to indicate the action is finished or inevitable. Done dead = already dead, done eat = have eaten.

Don’t hesitate; don’t be shy (go ahead)

Text twice/Spam (Double text)

Liberian usage meaning 'in the future.' Not just a location, but time.

City center/Urban (Downtown)

Aspirations happen (Dreams come true)

Casual clothes/Underdress (Dress down)

To dress up very stylishly or flamboyantly.

Let go/Stop (Drop it)

Leave school/Quit (Drop out)

Give ride/Transport (Drop off)

Malnourished

Shameless/Bold (No shame)

Jollof rice/Seasoned rice (Spiced rice)

Slow learner (Weak student)

Cassava dumpling (Traditional food)