Patwa
Jamaican Patwa (also spelled Patwah or Patois) is a creole language that developed in
Jamaica. It is based on English, but it contains many elements from African languages,
Spanish, Portuguese, and indigenous Caribbean languages. It is sometimes referred to as
“broken English,” but that is inaccurate and dismissive — Patwa has its own grammar,
pronunciation, and vocabulary.
| Patwa | English |
|---|---|
| Nuh badda mi | Do not bother me |
| A fi mi | It is mine |
| Criss Ting | Good looking girl |
| Jus a toops | Just a little |
| Ginnal | Con artist |
| Coo Deh | Look at that |
| A beg yuh | Can you please |
| Lef mi | Leave me alone |
| Jessum peace | Oh my gosh |
| Jus a word | Excuse me |
| Pssst | Hey there |
| Tun deh so | Turn there |
| Tanks | Thank you |
| Dawta | Girlfriend / Daughter |
| Irie | Fantastic / All good |
| Pickni | Children |
| Fadda | Father |
| Madda | Mother |