orí ńlá
The English phrase "big head" is translated into Yoruba as orí ńlá.
While the phrase can be understood literally, it is used metaphorically to describe a person who is arrogant, conceited or full of themselves.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of orí, meaning "head" and ńlá, meaning "big".
Did you know?
- The concept of orí is so central that there are specific prayers and offerings dedicated to one's own head to ensure a successful life.
- In Yoruba culture, the orí is not just a body part but is believed to be the seat of one's spiritual essence and destiny.
- While orí ńlá describes arrogance, a person with a 'good' orí is considered lucky or blessed by destiny regardless of their social status.
Examples in context
- Kò ṣe tán láti ní orí ńlá.It is not good to be arrogant.
- Ó ti di ẹni tí ó ní orí ńlá.He has become a conceited person.
- Má ṣe jẹ́ kí orí ńlá mú ọ.Do not let arrogance take over you.
Example conversation
Morenike is talking to Olumide about a boastful colleague.
- MorenikeOlumide, ṣé o rí bí ó ṣe ń sọ̀rọ̀?Olumide, did you see how he is talking?
- OlumideBẹ́ẹ̀ ni, ó ní orí ńlá gan-an.Yes, he is very conceited.
- MorenikeKò mọ̀ pé ẹnikẹ́ni kò fẹ́ràn rẹ̀.He doesn't know that nobody likes him.
- OlumideÌyẹn ni ohun tí orí ńlá ń ṣe.That is what being arrogant does.
