/kast/
Definition:
CAST is a dynamic Nigerian slang term that means to expose secrets, snitch, or reveal hidden information. Unlike its English counterpart, it carries strong social consequences in Nigerian street culture.
- CAST: To expose, reveal secrets, or snitch
- Synonyms: Expose, leak, show, sell out, reveal
- Antonyms: Cover, protect, hide, conceal, keep secret
Listen to how “CAST” is pronounced in this short video below.
Usage Examples:
- Investigative Context:
“The police CAST say the man na fraudster.”
(“The police revealed the man is a fraudster.”) - Everyday Conversation:
“Why you CAST my secret to everybody?”
(“Why did you expose my secret to everyone?”) - Warning/Proverb:
“If you CAST people, na you go hear am tomorrow.”
(“If you expose others, you’ll face consequences later.”)
Cultural Context:
Origin: The word “CAST” originates from English but has been adapted into Nigerian Pidgin with a different meaning. In standard English, “Cast” can mean to throw, assign a role, or shape something. However, in Nigerian Pidgin, the word evolved to mean “expose, reveal, snitch, or spoil something.”
This transformation likely stems from the idea of “Casting light” on something hidden or exposing something previously unknown. Over time, it became widely used in street slang, social interactions, and even music lyrics.
This creative adaptation of English shows Nigerian Pidgin’s linguistic innovation. From street arguments to social media call-outs, CAST represents:
- Social accountability (“Na who CAST the thief?”)
- Betrayal (“You CAST me for nothing!”)
- Public shaming (“Dem go CAST your secret for whole Lagos“)
Popular in youth culture, it’s frequently used in Afrobeats lyrics and online banter.
Regional Usage
- Nigeria: Common in urban centers (Lagos, PH, Abuja)
- West Africa: Understood in Ghana/Sierra Leone Pidgin
- Diaspora: Used in Nigerian communities abroad
How do you use CAST?
- Share Your Example:
“My sister CAST my relationship to my parents!” - Regional Variations:
“In my area, we say ‘CAST light’ for serious exposures.”
CAST embodies Nigeria’s no-nonsense approach to truth-telling – whether calling out lies or warning against betrayal, it’s a linguistic tool for social justice in street culture. From market quarrels to music disses, this versatile term continues to shape Nigerian conversations.