/kʌnˈfæm/ Definition: CONFAM is a Nigerian Pidgin term derived from the English word “Confirm.” It means to verify, authenticate, or agree with something. It’s commonly used in both casual and semi-formal contexts to express certainty or truth. CONFAM: To confirm, verify, or agree Synonyms: Correct, legit, certified, true talk, authentic Antonyms: Fake, false, unverified, doubtful, counterfeit Listen to how...Read More
/ˈkʊk ʃɒp/ Definition: A COOK SHOP is a small, informal restaurant or food stall that serves affordable local meals. These spots are common in markets, motor parks, and street corners, offering quick meals like rice, beans, soups, and stews. Synonyms: “Mama Put“, “Buka“, “Food joint”, “Canteen” Antonyms: “Big restaurant”, “Hotel” (used for upscale eateries in Nigeria), “Fast food” Hear how native speakers pronounce COOK SHOP in the...Read More
/dɛm/ Definition: In Nigerian Pidgin English, DEM functions as the third-person plural pronoun “them” in Standard English. It is used to refer to a group of people, animals, or things that have been previously mentioned or are understood from context. Synonyms: “Them” (English equivalent), “Those ones” Antonyms: “Us”, “Me”, “You” (singular) Hear how native speakers pronounce DEM in the video below. Usage Examples: Informal: “DEM...Read More
/deɪ/ Definition: In Nigerian Pidgin English, DEY is a pro-verb used to indicate a state of being or an action in progress. It is equivalent to “am,” “is,” or “are” in Standard English. The word can be used in various tenses and contexts. Synonyms: “Be” (in some contexts), “Stay” (for location) Antonyms: “No DEY” (not present/not doing), “Don finish” (completed action) Hear how...Read More
/ˈdiːa/ Definition: In Nigerian Pidgin English, DIA means “there.” It is used to indicate a place, location, or position. It functions similarly to the English word “there” in both physical and abstract contexts. Synonyms: “There” (English equivalent), “Yonder“ (in some dialects) Antonyms: “Here” (“here”), “No dey“ (not present) Hear how native speakers pronounce DIA in the video below. Usage Examples: Informal: “Abeg, put my bag DIA!” (Please,...Read More
/dɪs/ Definition: In Nigerian Pidgin English, DIS is the equivalent of the English word “this.” It is used to point to or refer to something close to the speaker in place or time. Synonyms: “This” (Standard English), “Na DIS” (emphasized form) Antonyms: “Dat“ (that), “Dem“ (those) Hear how native speakers pronounce DIS in the video below. Usage Examples: Informal: “DIS my new phone cost me arm...Read More
/ˈdoʊdoʊ/ Definition: In Nigerian Pidgin English, DODO refers to a meal made of fried ripe plantains. It is a popular delicacy enjoyed as a side dish, snack, or main meal accompaniment. Synonyms: “Fried plantain”, “Boli“ Antonyms: “Raw plantain”, “Boiled plantain” Hear how native speakers pronounce DODO in the video below. Usage Examples: Informal: “Mama, fry DODO make I chop with egg!” Formal: “DODO...Read More
/dɒn/ Definition: In Nigerian Pidgin English, DON is an auxiliary verb used to indicate the present perfect tense. It functions similarly to “has” or “have” in Standard English, showing that an action has been completed or that a state has changed. Synonyms: Has, have, already, done Antonyms: Never, not yet, hasn’t, haven’t Hear how native...Read More
/ɛˈɡuːsi suːp/ Definition: EGUSI SOUP is a popular Nigerian soup made from ground melon seeds (Egusi), usually cooked with leafy vegetables, assorted meats, stockfish, and seasonings. It is typically eaten with swallows such as eba, pounded yam, or fufu. In Nigerian homes, EGUSI SOUP is considered a rich and satisfying meal, loved for its creamy...Read More
/ˈfuːfuː/ Definition: FUFU is a traditional West African dish made by pounding boiled cassava, yam, or plantain (or a mix of these) into a smooth, stretchy, dough-like consistency. It is classified as a swallow, meaning it is typically swallowed rather than chewed and is eaten with various soups or stews like egusi, ogbono, or okra...Read More
