/ˈləʊˌkiː/
Definition:
In Nigerian Pidgin and contemporary street slang, LOWKEY refers to doing something quietly, secretly, or without drawing attention. It’s a term that implies discretion, subtlety, or keeping matters private. Whether referring to emotions, actions, or plans, “LOWKEY” is used to suggest that something is happening under the radar.
The word has both literal and emotional applications. For example, someone might say, “I dey LOWKEY plan my trip go Ghana”, meaning they’re making travel arrangements quietly. Emotionally, it can reflect hidden feelings, such as “I like that girl LOWKEY”, meaning the speaker has feelings for someone but isn’t openly expressing it.
“LOWKEY” can also mean not trying to be loud or dramatic. It reflects a desire to stay grounded or avoid hype. In contrast to “highkey”—which means something is obvious or openly stated—“LOWKEY” keeps things subtle and under wraps.
It has become a vital part of Nigerian urban vocabulary, especially among young people who want to express things indirectly or keep something from public attention. Whether it’s about relationships, money moves, or opinions, using “LOWKEY” gives the speaker a level of mystery and coolness.
- Synonyms: “Discreetly”, “Secretly”, “Subtly”
- Antonyms: “Loudly”, “Publicly”, “Openly”
Listen to how LOWKEY is pronounced in this short video below.
Usage Examples:
- Informal: “I wan LOWKEY comot from this job.”
- Formal: “He is quietly making arrangements to switch careers without drawing attention.”
- Idiomatic: “She sabi the answer LOWKEY but she no wan talk make dem no call am oversabi.”
Cultural Context:
Origin:
The term “LOWKEY” originally comes from American slang and hip-hop culture, where it was used to describe keeping things quiet or unannounced. In the 2000s, the word migrated into mainstream English usage, particularly in online spaces like Twitter and Instagram. Young Nigerians picked up the word and blended it into Pidgin English, evolving its use to fit local expressions and cultural nuances.
In Nigerian Pidgin, “LOWKEY” became especially popular among university students, Lagos youth, and social media users who use it to express hidden emotions, subtle actions, or secret plans. The appeal of the word lies in its ambiguity—it lets people say something without saying it too loud. For example, a guy might say, “I dey feel that babe LOWKEY”, showing interest without openly admitting it.
Over time, “LOWKEY” has embedded itself in music, memes, and everyday conversation. Nigerian artists and influencers use it to create a laid-back, chill persona or to speak indirectly about sensitive topics. It’s not just a trend—it reflects a broader cultural value: doing things without unnecessary noise.
Regional Usage:
In Nigeria, “LOWKEY” is widely understood and used across major cities like Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Benin. It cuts across ethnic and linguistic groups, becoming a unifying piece of slang among urban youth. You’ll hear it on university campuses, in music videos, and even on the street. The word is particularly strong in youth culture, where people seek to express individuality and privacy in a noisy, digital world.
Though the term is English in origin, it’s used in a uniquely Nigerian way. In local usage, it carries emotional and cultural weight. For example, a person might say, “I dey hustle my side business LOWKEY,” to avoid attention or envy from others. It’s also commonly used in gossip circles, relationships, and planning.
Outside Nigeria, “LOWKEY” is also used in Ghana, South Africa, and among the African diaspora in the UK and US. However, the Nigerian context gives it a flavor rooted in survival, hustle culture, and social awareness. In music and Nollywood, it has been immortalized as a word that carries both swagger and secrecy.
What’s something you dey LOWKEY do wey nobody sabi? Drop your sentence using LOWKEY for us!