cool dung
The English phrase "calm down" is translated into Jamaican as cool dung.
cool dung is used to describe the act of becoming less excited. You might also encounter other ways to express this sentiment, such as suggesting someone take their time or simmer down.
Meaning: To become less excited (verb)
Did you know?
- The word 'dung' in cool dung does not refer to excrement, but is a phonetic variation of the English word 'down'.
- Using 'cool dung' can be seen as a way to maintain 'vibes' or a positive social atmosphere within a group.
- In some contexts, telling someone to 'cool dung' is an idiomatic way of telling them to stop being 'too hype' or overly boastful.
Examples in context
- Yuh need fi cool dung.You need to calm down.
- Just cool dung and listen.Just calm down and listen.
- Mi tell him fi cool dung.I told him to calm down.
Example conversation
Kevon and Tanesha are arguing in a crowded market.
- KevonTanesha, yuh a too vex, cool dung!Tanesha, you are too angry, calm down!
- TaneshaMi no waan cool dung right now!I do not want to calm down right now!
- KevonEverything a go alright, jus' cool dung.Everything is going to be alright, just calm down.
- TaneshaAlright, mi a go try.Alright, I am going to try.
