How to Use Interjections
play_circle_filled Advanced Lesson- An interjection is simply a word or expression that shows sudden, strong feelings. Common examples of interjections are wow! ouch! yikes! and so on.
- Emotions, sentiments and sensations breathe life into a language -- and Haitian Creole is no different.
- Therefore, by knowing the interjections in Creole and when to use them, it will be much easier for you to bond with Haitians.
- For example, using an outlandish interjection like anmwe! when speaking to a Haitian may move him to say to himself "Wow! This guy speaks Creole like a Haitian."
- Don't hold back your emotions when using interjections. The more you put heart into it, the more natural it will feel.
- The native speakers will be dazzled by your heartfelt efforts as they see you express yourself in their mother tongue.
Why You Must Learn Haitian Creole Interjections
Tip: Be Bold and Dramatic!
To Express Surprise, Shock (Flexible Usage)
- Like English, there are different ways of using many of the interjections in Creole. For example, you can use the English interjection oh man! to express disappointment, amazement, annoyance, etc.
- The same applies to these nine Creole interjections below.
- 1. Kèt! - Wow! Man!
- 2. Mezanmi - wow!
- 3. Gadon Koze! - Oh my word!
- 4. Mesye! - Oh man!
- 5. O! - wow!* [2]
- 6. O! O! - wow!* [2]
- 7. Koumanman - Whoa!
- 8. Rete! - Hold on! Hold that thought!*
- 1. As already mentioned, the interjections above are flexible. For example, you can use kèt to express shock or in a sad or happy way.
- 2. You can use o! and o! o! interchangeably. But, it may be easier to prove the point by saying o! o!
Some Things to Keep Mind
To Express Amazement
- 1. Trè byen! - Very well!
- 2. Bon bagay! - Wow! Great stuff!
- 3. Wipip! - Wow! Looking good!
- 4. Wololoy! - Whoaaa!
- 5. Palemwadsa - Wow! Impressive
To Express Fear, Shock or Pain
- 1. Woy! - Yikes!
- 2. Wouy! - Oh no!
- 3. Wouch! - Ouch!
- 4. Anmwe! - Ahhh!
To Express Pity or Sadness
- 1. Ala tris - How sad!!
- 2. Elas! - Alas!
To Express Irritation, Frustration, etc.
- 1. Ayayay! - Aargh!
- 2. Tètchaje! - Overwhelming!
To Express Apathy or Lack of Concern
- 1. Sa pa regade m! - This doesn't concern me!
- 2. Kite mele m! Why should I care!
Awesome stuff!
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ReplyDeleteAwesome teaching this and reading since i was never how to read it but easier than i thought
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