How-To Creole

How to Use Interjections

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Why You Must Learn Haitian Creole Interjections

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• 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."
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Tip: Be Bold and Dramatic!

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• 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.

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• 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

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• 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!