/ˈkɒn.kɒn.sɑː/
Definition:
KONKONSA is a Ghanaian Pidgin word derived from the Akan or Twi language, and it broadly means gossip—the act of talking behind someone’s back, often with exaggerated or false information. In both Pidgin and urban Ghanaian English, “KONKONSA” refers to idle talk or spreading news—especially when it’s none of one’s business or intended to stir up drama.
Someone who engages in “KONKONSA” is often seen as a busybody or a troublemaker, someone who thrives on sharing secrets or spreading unverified stories. The word carries a strongly negative connotation. For instance, a common expression would be, “E too like KONKONSA!”—meaning the person gossips too much.
The word also speaks to the cultural importance of discretion and integrity. In Ghanaian society, where respect and communal living are deeply valued, “KONKONSA” can break trust, damage reputations, and create unnecessary conflict. It’s often discouraged in both formal and informal settings, especially among elders and professionals.
However, it can also be used humorously or casually among friends, especially when teasing someone who enjoys listening to or sharing news. Its widespread use in conversation, media, and social networks makes “KONKONSA” an everyday part of Ghanaian vernacular and an insightful term for understanding local social dynamics.
Listen to how KONKONSA is pronounced in this short video below.
Usage Examples:
- Informal: “You dey do KONKONSA too much. Face your own matter!”
- Formal: “Spreading unverified stories is unprofessional and can damage reputations.”
- Idiomatic: “Na this your KONKONSA go put you for wahala one day.” (This habit of gossiping will get you into trouble someday.)
Cultural Context:
Origin:
The term “KONKONSA” comes directly from the Twi language, one of the most widely spoken dialects in Ghana, particularly among the Akan people. In Twi, “KONKONSA” refers to idle talk or gossip, usually of a malicious or unconstructive nature. When Ghanaian Pidgin English evolved as a lingua franca among urban populations, especially in Accra and Kumasi, it adopted many local terms from Twi—including “KONKONSA”.
The oral tradition and communal living of Ghanaian societies meant that information—both official and unofficial—was often spread through informal networks. As a result, words like “KONKONSA” became important to describe the nature of these informal conversations, especially those with negative consequences.
The word retains the same meaning in both its Twi and Pidgin usage, but in Pidgin, it has taken on a more dramatic and humorous tone. It’s used not just to condemn gossip but also to point out someone’s curiosity, nosiness, or fondness for unnecessary talk. In Ghanaian pop culture, radio shows, skits, and even songs have referenced “KONKONSA” as part of everyday behavior.
Thus, the origin of “KONKONSA” reflects a linguistic borrowing rooted in shared cultural practices of storytelling, communication, and social etiquette.
Regional Usage:
“KONKONSA” is most commonly used in Ghana, especially in urban regions such as Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi. In these areas, Ghanaian Pidgin thrives as a mix of English, Twi, Ga, Ewe, and other local languages. The term is well understood by speakers of all ethnic groups and is regularly used in conversation, music, social media, and even radio programs.
In urban centers, young people often use “KONKONSA” to describe gossip blogs, WhatsApp group chats, or even political rumors. It’s common to hear phrases like, “Dis one be pure KONKONSA,” meaning the story being told is clearly gossip.
In rural areas, while the word is still understood, its usage might be more tied to the original Twi meaning and treated with more seriousness, especially among elders.
Additionally, Ghanaians in the diaspora use “KONKONSA” to describe local community gossip, blending it into their multicultural English in places like the UK, US, or Canada. As a result, it has become a diaspora cultural term as well.
The term is also making its way into broader West African pidgin discourse, particularly in online content shared between Ghana and Nigeria.
Who for your area dey do KONKONSA pass? Drop a sentence using “KONKONSA” in the comments section and tag your friend wey dey always hear tori wey no concern am!