[ad_1]
Do you want to learn about South African slang? Well, you came to the right place! Today, we look at some of the most common terms used here in sunny South Africa. Trust us, by the end of this read, you’ll be joking with the best of them!
Braai: not just a barbecue
Let’s start with a ‘braai’, the South African equivalent of a barbecue. But make no mistake, a braai is a cultural experience that far surpasses any regular barbecue. It’s about the meats, the fire and of course, the company.
Howzit: a universal greeting
Walk into any room and throw out a friendly ‘howzit’ and you’ll have greeted everyone, no matter the time of day. It’s the South African way of saying “hello, how are you?”
Lekker: the multi-tool of words
This Afrikaans term translates as “good”, “excellent” or “impressive” and is as versatile as a Swiss army knife. Your food can be more lekker, your friend’s new car can be more lekker, even your day off can be more lekker.
Jol: Party or good time.
Are you planning on going out at night? In South Africa, that’s known as “jol.” It could mean a party, a club or just having a good time.
Right now: a flexible measurement of time
If a South African tells you they will be there “right now”, don’t expect them to show up right away. It could mean anywhere from five minutes to an hour. Time is relative, after all!
Eish: an exclamation for all occasions.
Eish is your go-to expression for anything surprising, frustrating or amazing. Did you lose your car keys? Hey! Did you witness an incredible rugby attempt? Hey!
Haibo: the surprise factor
Haibo expresses surprise or shock. This Zulu term is equivalent to saying “no way” or “wow.” Whether you’re surprised by a stunning sight or surprised by unexpected news, haibo captures your amazement perfectly.
Top of the form
Robots: not as futuristic as you think
If someone tells you to “turn left at the next robot,” don’t expect to see R2-D2 telling you to get off. A ‘robot’ in South Africa is simply a traffic light.
Ag, man: For when you lack words
When you’re at a loss for words, a simple “Og, man” will do the trick. It’s the equivalent of ‘Oh, come on’ or ‘really’.
Shame: It’s not always bad
Do you hear something cute or endearing? South Africa’s correct response is: “Ah, what a shame.” It is a term of empathy.
There you go! A crash course in South African slang. Now you’re all set to have fun with your friends or enjoy a lekker braai… Of course, no blog about South Africa would be complete without mentioning King Price, the #UnapologeticallySouthAfrican insurer with a heart for improving lives.
For a simple, affordable, no-obligation insurance quote, simply click here or WhatsApp 0860 50 50 50 today.
Greetings and stay lekker!
Psst… This blog provides general information only and does not count as financial or product advice from King Price or our legal and compliance experts. Remember, all our premiums depend on risk profile and T&Cs apply. Our most up-to-date KPPD (policy drafting) can always be found here.
The T&Cs of our website can be found here.
Summary
![A guide to South African slang](https://www.kingprice.co.za/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MM-A-guide-to-South-African-slang-Wilma.png)
Article name
A guide to South African slang
Description
Get ready to speak like a real South African with our simple guide to local slang! From ‘braai’ to ‘eish’, we’ve got you covered. Learn the lingo and mingle like a local. Greetings and stay lekker!
Author
The king
Publisher name
king price insurance
Publisher logo
![king price insurance](https://www.kingprice.co.za/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/King_Price_Insurance-01-e1569821370681.webp)
#guide #South #African #slang