Learn How 'Fe' Talk Jamaican Language

"Nuff people ask me fe put some Jamaican language pon this site." so, here it is!

Here is some "real" Jamaican patois (pronounced patwa) straight from "yawd."

What is Patois? It is formal English broken into bits and pieces to fit the Jamaican vibes...enough to get Jamaicans talking among themselves.

Though not internationally recognized as an official language, it has been around for quite some time.

It all began back in the 17th century when West African slaves on the island were forced to learned the language of their slave masters.

Without formal teachings, these slaves quickly adjusted pronunciations to fit their understanding.

This 'new' English mingled with their native 'tongue' would slowly morph into what we now call "Patwa."

Today, 'patwa' is the language of choice on the island. People still learn formal English in schools and so on, but they only use it when necessary...for example, when they a seeking employment or when they have to work in an environment that demands its usage...Otherwise, 'Patwa' is king!

The next time you meet and talk to a Jamaican...and can get them to speak in the native tongue, listen for words like "Wha" which means "what," "fe" meaning "for," "ya" meaning "yes"...and so on.

Also, check out the words below and see if you can pronounce and use them when you get the chance, they may become very useful if you plan to visit the island.

These are the same words in the video above. I have provided a little help with the enunciation, so enjoy...-----------------------------------------------------------------
Here we go...

acta: actor

adis: It is this

adoor: outside

afi: It's for

auty: hearty

Actoba: October

agany: agony

ago: I am going, to go

agood: serve you just right

ahoa!: an exclamation similar to Oooh or Aaaah

aldoah: although

alla wi: all of us

alms ouse: poor house

an: and

anda: under

anadda/anedda: another

anansi: Name of the spider character in favorite Jamaican folklore.

ansa: answer

anty: Aunt

ar: or

areddi: already

aringe: orange

artical: respected

ascordin: according

ave: have

awile: awhile

awright: alright

aask: ask

That's it for the A's for now. The B's are coming up so stay tuned...

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