A lesson in Namlish

Because it's Friday and I'm in a fun mood, I have decided to enlighten some of you folks in the states with a little language lesson. Since I've been in Namibia I have learned that although English is the official language, Namibians have their own special version. Although sometimes confusing when first heard, I have grown to love this Namlish and even use it in my daily life now. So, why not fulfill a Peace Corps goal and send some of this cultural flavor back home? Below is a list of common Namlish phrases/slang I have learned and my interpretation of the meanings.

Namlish = What it means (at least to me)

"Nee?" = You add this onto the end of a sentence, like saying "You understand, right?" 

Ex: "That is where you work, nee?"  

"I am coming just now." = This could mean someone is going somewhere now or coming to you now. 

"Is it?"  = This is like saying "Oh really?"

"Now now" = This either means something is happening right now, or in an hour from now.

"Eish" = This is an exclamation used in many circumstances. But mostly it is used like "Oh man!"

Ex: "Eish, that is expensive!"

"Atatatatata" = Generally it is used to show a form of disapproval. The more 'tas' the more disapproval. 

Ex: "She was out so late. Atatata."  

"Just there" = This is used when the person assumes you know where they are referencing. It could mean it is very close by or nowhere nearby. 

Ex: "My house is just there." 

"And the what what" = Used like etc or to fill in something that you already know.

Ex: "We bought meat and the what what"

"Are we together?" =To check understanding with others around you. Like, "Do you understand?"

"Sharp sharp"  = Often used to say yes or to show your approval.

"Yabo"= It means yes.

"Paining" = It usually means something is hurt or aching.

Ex: "My head is paining."

"You must..." = Although it might sound like you are required to do something, it is actually just a request.

Ex: "You must give me your number."

"He/she is not serious." = Used like, "They must be joking, right?"

"Is having...." = Can mean a few things. It either means someone has something or that they are rich.

Ex: "She is having a lot of children." OR "That PCV is having."        

I have also figured out, that you can add -s to the end of any word and it will transform your average English word to Namlish. For example, I am often greeted with 'Hellos' or 'Mornings'. 

That is your first lesson in Namlish everyone. Give yourself a pat on the back for making it through and now go forth and conquer that shabeen! Or Chiptole/Dunkin Donuts/Cheesecake Factory/Buffalo Wild Wings/#Allthingsdelicious if you are one of the lucky ducks that has access to one. (Food envy in full force)