efisɛ
The English word 'because' is translated into Twi as efisɛ.
Meaning: by or for the cause that, on this account that, for the reason that (conj)
What does it mean word for word?
The word efisɛ is a contraction of efi, meaning 'from' and sɛ, meaning 'that'.
How does it change in a sentence?
efisɛ acts as a conjunction used to introduce a subordinate clause of reason.
Did you know?
- The word sɛ inside efisɛ is one of the most versatile words in Twi, acting as 'that', 'if', 'when' and even 'say'.
- In many Akan dialects, the directionality of efi implies that the reason is a point of origin from which the consequence flows.
- The word sɛ used in this phrase is the same word used to mean 'like' or 'as' in comparisons.
Example conversation
Afia and Kwesi are talking about a missed meeting.
- AfiaKwesi, adɛn nti wo nannyɛ baa ha?Kwesi, why didn't you come here?
- KwesiManbaa ha efisɛ me bonten nnuane.I didn't come because I was late.
- AfiaƐyɛ ya sɛ wo baa nnuane.It is sad that you were late.
- KwesiMepa wo kyɛw efisɛ me nka nnuane.I am sorry because I forgot.
