Visiting Ghana? Here are some Ghana (Twi) Phrases You Should Learn

It goes without saying that being conversant in a nation's native tongue and slang terms facilitates communication with people and improves appreciation of their way of life. Among the roughly fifty languages spoken in Ghana, Twi, the language of the Akan people, is without a doubt the most commonly spoken, with 7 million speakers spread across the nation. These are a few common expressions and words that travellers to Ghana are likely to run upon.

Etisen /wohotesen?

"How is it/how are you?" is how this is typically translated. Because they are a socially conscious people, Ghanaians are likely to ask you this question at your first meeting of the day because they are concerned about your health. "Etesen" is met with "mehoye" or "eh ya," which translate to "I am good" or "I am fine."

Ye fro wo sen?

This translates to "What's your name?" Asking someone their name when you meet them is a good idea, even just out of courtesy.It's possible that you'll be asked for your name as well, so being prepared with this expression will help. This is how you should respond to this question: "Ye fre me (my name is)..."

Oboruni

Oboruni means foreigner, You'll hear this phrase used frequently. By "a lot," I mean at least twenty to one hundred times a day. While calling someone a "foreigner" may sound impolite in many Western cultures, in Ghana, people use it as a friendly greeting and an attempt to get to know you.

Akwaaba

The Akan people say "Welcome" with this term. Travellers who frequently visit Ghana are familiar with the term "Akwaaba" since Ghanaians have a reputation for being hospitable and kind to outsiders. "Medaase," which translates to "Thank you," is the reply to "Akwaaba."

Wo fri hene?

usually pronounced like "wo fri he?”.  This question merely asks where you are from or where you are originally from. This is an issue that will probably come up in discussion because many Ghanaians take great pleasure in the villages, towns, or cities they were born and raised in. The answer to that question is…. “Me fri (I am from )……….

Me daa si

“Me daa si” means  "Thank you." Ghanaians are very amiable and will frequently assist you in acclimating to the region and its culture. Thus, learning how to express thanks in their language is only appropriate.

Yoo

This means “okay”, an affirmation that one is in agreement with the one he or she is communicating with.

Koo Se

Koo se is the expression for "sorry." You will inevitably make mistakes along the way as a foreigner.

E so ma me

E so ma me is what you will say to request for a reduction in prices on negotiable products especially sold by street hawkers as well as Taxi ride services, It means “reduce the price for me”. Bargaining is at the heart of the local markets that sell goods at affordable prices; so it is really necessary to get your bargaining skills up to be able to make great deals.

To so ma me

To so ma me means "add some more," which is the opposite of e so ma me. This proposal is actually used during bargaining and is primarily encountered in the commercial sector.

Understanding these Twi phrases is a win-win! Not only will they help you communicate more smoothly in Ghana, but Ghanaians will appreciate your effort and likely be even friendlier towards you.

Marrying Ghana Kente is dedicated to ensuring you have a fabulous Ghana wedding experience. We provide the best quality Kente and luxurious wedding accessories. Shop now at https://mgkente.com/

Looking for love? Why don’t you check out our dating site https://mgdating.com/. Your heartthrob may be a click away.