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Mache ès-ès!
Meaning
To behave properly, follow orders, or remain under strict discipline.
To fè yon moun mache ès-ès means to make someone straighten up, obey the rules, or toe the line.
Translation: To toe the line; to straighten up; to follow orders
Word-for-Word Meaning: Walk S-S
Example 1
Kèt! Ti gason sa a frekan! M ta fè l mache ès-ès si m te manman l.
Wow! This boy is so disrespectful! I would make him straighten up if I were his mother.
Example 2
Nouvo patwon sa a pa jwe non. Li fè tout moun nan travay la mache ès-ès.
This new boss doesn't play around. He makes everyone at work follow the rules.
Fun Facts
The letter S is pronounced and written ès in Haitian Creole. Therefore, the expression is commonly written mache ès-ès.
The expression does not necessarily mean that someone is literally walking in a zigzag pattern. It is normally used figuratively to describe someone behaving properly, following strict instructions, or staying in line.
You may also hear someone say fè yon moun mache ès-ès when talking about disciplining that person or making them improve their behavior.
The exact historical origin of the expression is uncertain.