wan sentens
The English phrase "a sentence" is translated into Jamaican as wan sentens.
This phrase refers to a set of words that is complete in itself, typically containing a subject and a predicate.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Kingston, locals often greet with the phrase Whaa gwaan?
Did you know?
- Because Jamaican Patois is a creole, the phrase wan sentens represents a blend of English vocabulary and a distinct West African-influenced syntax.
- Jamaican Patois often omits the copula 'is' or 'are', meaning wan sentens can be used as a predicate without a verb, such as in 'Dat wan sentens'.
- When reading a sentens aloud in a Jamaican context, the pitch and stress on certain syllables can change the entire emotional intent of the statement, much like a musical note.
Examples in context
- Mi deh yah pon di beach, a enjoy di sun!I'm here on the beach, enjoying the sun!
- Mi did waan some jerk chicken fi di partyI wanted some jerk chicken for the party.
- Yuh jus write wan sentens.You just wrote a sentence.
- Dat a wan sentens weh nuh mek sense.That is a sentence that doesn't make sense.
Example conversation
Latoya is helping Kevon with his English homework.
- LatoyaKevon, yuh done write di whole paragraph?Kevon, have you finished writing the whole paragraph?
- KevonNo, mi jus write wan sentens.No, I just wrote a sentence.
- LatoyaYuh need fi mek it longer.You need to make it longer.
- KevonMi a try, Latoya.I am trying, Latoya.
