jọwọ
The English phrase 'abeg' is expressed in Yoruba using jọwọ.
jọwọ is used to express the concept of 'please' or to signify a request or a plea.
Did you know?
- If you are requesting something from an elder, it is culturally more appropriate to use the plural form ẹ jọwọ instead of the singular, even if you are only speaking to one person.
- While jọwọ is the standard word for 'please', the term 'abeg' is actually a loanword from Nigerian Pidgin English, which is widely used alongside Yoruba in urban areas like Lagos.
- The word jọwọ shares a conceptual space with words used to describe 'softness' or 'gentleness' in character, rather than just a polite request.
Examples in context
- Jọwọ, fún mi ní omi.Please, give me some water.
- Jọwọ, sọ ọrọ náà fún mi.Please, tell me that word.
- Jọwọ, dákẹ́ jẹ́ẹ́.Please, be quiet.
Example conversation
Folake asks Olumide to pass her a book.
- FolakeOlumide, jọwọ gbe iwe yẹn wa.Olumide, please bring that book.
- OlumideO wa nibi, Folake.It is here, Folake.
- FolakeMo dúpẹ́, jọwọ fún mi.Thank you, please give it to me.
- OlumideO ti wa lọ.Here it is.
