an
The Jamaican word for 'and' is an.
an is used to connect similar words or phrases. In informal Jamaican, you may also encounter the phrase An' all, which means 'and even' or 'and also' to add emphasis. Another informal phrase is An' suh, which is used to connect events or actions with a cause-and-effect relationship.
Meaning: used to connect two similar words, phrases, et cetera (conj)
Which one should you use?
In Jamaican Patois, the 'd' at the end of the English word 'and' is usually dropped, resulting in an.
Did you know?
- In Jamaican Patois, an is often used as a rhythmic bridge in dancehall music to maintain the flow of a lyric, even when it does not serve a strict grammatical purpose.
- The phrase an' all is used not just for addition, but to express disbelief or surprise at the inclusion of a specific item in a list.
- The expression an' suh functions similarly to the English 'and so', but it is frequently used to signal the punchline or the resolution of a story in oral storytelling.
Examples in context
- First we'll go to the market, an' den we'll go to the beach afterwards.First we'll go to the market, and then we'll go to the beach afterwards.
- Mi waan some rice an' ting.I want some rice and things.
- Mi bruk mi foot, an' suh mi cyaa go a di party.I broke my foot, and so I can't go to the party.
- Mi waan mango an apple.I want mango and apple.
- Him drink juice an water.He drank juice and water.
- Di sun hot an di sky blue.The sun is hot and the sky is blue.
Example conversation
Andre and Latoya are at a small grocery stall.
- AndreLatoya, yuh waan bread an milk?Latoya, do you want bread and milk?
- LatoyaYes, mi need bread an cheese too.Yes, I need bread and cheese too.
- AndreAn yuh waan any fruit?And do you want any fruit?
- LatoyaNo, jus' di bread an cheese. Thanks.No, just the bread and cheese. Thanks.
