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How to Say Interjections Like Wow! Ouch! in Haitian Creole

How to Use Interjections

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    Why You Must Learn Haitian Creole Interjections


  • 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."
  •  
  • Tip: Be Bold and Dramatic!


  • 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.

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!*

    Some Things to Keep Mind


  • 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!

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!
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