Janga Wolof

Learning Wolof can be a fun and enriching experience, especially when you focus on conversational phrases that you can use in everyday interactions. Whether you’re traveling to Senegal, The Gambia, or simply connecting with Wolof speakers, these 15 essential words and phrases will help you break the ice and start meaningful conversations.

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1. Salaamaalekum (sa-lah-mah-leh-koom)

• Meaning: Peace be upon you.
• Use: A standard greeting in Wolof. The typical response is “Maalekum salaam” (And peace be upon you).

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2. Na nga def? (nah nga dehf)

• Meaning: How are you?
• Use: A polite way to check in with someone.

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3. Maa ngi fi rek. (mah ngi fee rek)

• Meaning: I’m fine.
• Use: A common response to “Na nga def?”

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4. Jërëjëf (jeh-reh-jehf)

• Meaning: Thank you.
• Use: A polite way to express gratitude.

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5. Amuma. (ah-moo-mah)

• Meaning: I don’t have it.
• Use: Useful when you need to decline something politely.

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6. Ba beneen yoon. (bah beh-nehn yoon)

• Meaning: See you next time.
• Use: A friendly way to say goodbye.

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7. Naka waakër ga? (nah-kah wah-kehr gah)

• Meaning: How is the family?
• Use: A thoughtful way to inquire about someone’s loved ones.

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8. Dama sonno. (dah-mah soh-noh)

• Meaning: I’m tired.
• Use: When you want to express that you need rest.

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9. Lekk naa. (leh-kk nah)

• Meaning: I ate.
• Use: A simple statement for answering if someone asks about food.

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10. Nopp naa la. (noh-pp nah lah)

• Meaning: I miss you.
• Use: A heartfelt way to express affection or longing for someone.

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11. Degg nga Wolof? (dehg ngah woh-lohf)

• Meaning: Do you understand Wolof?
• Use: A useful question to check if the person speaks Wolof.

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12. Waaw (wah-w)

• Meaning: Yes.
• Use: A simple affirmation.

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13. Déedéet (deh-deht)

• Meaning: No.
• Use: A clear way to decline or disagree.

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14. Bëgg naa… (behg nah…)

• Meaning: I want…
• Use: Useful for expressing desires or making requests. Example: “Bëgg naa ndox” (I want water).

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15. Sant nga… (sahn-t ngah…)

• Meaning: What’s your name?
• Use: A great way to learn someone’s name in a friendly conversation.

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Practice Tips

• Start Small: Begin by using one or two phrases daily.
• Listen and Repeat: Immerse yourself in spoken Wolof to perfect pronunciation.
• Be Consistent: Practice makes perfect. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes!

These phrases are just the beginning of your Wolof journey. Use them often, and you’ll not only learn the language but also build meaningful connections with Wolof speakers. Nuyul ak jamm (Greet with peace)!