Showcasing Nigerian expressions that are rooted in English is a celebration of the ingenuity and cultural richness of Nigerians. The objective of this awareness is to expose these expressions so that they will possibly become part of the global lexicon.
Language is not static but alive; it is shaped by the lives and experiences of its speakers. By highlighting these expressions, Nigeria’s cultural identity is expected to be honoured, and global communication will be enriched. It is a way of saying that every language has its own beauty and worth, and that the world is richer when the diversity of human expression is embraced.
English has been infused with the rhythms and flavours of Nigeria’s indigenous tongues. It is a way of saying, “This is who we are, and this is how we speak.”
Globalization threatens to homogenize cultures, but Nigerian expressions will serve as anchors, grounding Nigerians in their identity, opening the door to a more inclusive understanding and cultural exchange that enrich us all. This global recognition reminds us of the power of language to connect, inspire, and unite; a signal that language is a bridge, not a barrier.
Take / embezzle somebody’s money (English)
Eat somebody’s money (Nigerian English)
Na wash (Nigerian Pidgin English)
Conji or Konji (Nigerian English)
Sofri sofri (Nigerian English)
(Be in) a tearing hurry or rush (English)
Shoot your shot (Nigerian English)
Slack off (on something) (English)
You dey slack (Nigerian Pidgin English)
Be all mouth (English) To make mouth
Na mouth you get (Nigerian Pidgin English)
Shine your eyes (Nigerian English)
Show your hand / cards (British English)
Tip your hand (American English)
I see your hand (Nigerian Pidgin English)
Chop food (Nigerian Pidgin English)
Let me come and be going (Nigerian English)
Beef (about somebody or something)
(English) Beef (Nigerian English)
Somebody’s blood is up (English)
Your body dey hot (Nigerian Pidgin English)
Have a bone to pick with somebody (English)
Bone up on something (English)
Koo…nii (Nigerian / Yoruba version)
Not sending someone a message (English)
I no send you message (Pidgin English)
Shey you dey whine me? (Pidgin English)
Is it correct to say: Flash me (Flash my phone)? (Not correct! See more…)
Is it correct to say: “A beggar has no choice?” (Not correct! See more…)
The taste of the pudding is in the eating.
The proof of the pudding is in the eating. (See more…)
Don’t rest on your laurels (See more…)
Why do we say: “Till death do us part?” (See more…)
Parents-Teachers Association (See more…)
As poor as a church rat (See more…)
Cut your coat according to your cloth
Cut your coat according to your size
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