dwo wo ho
To say 'calm down' in Twi, use dwo wo ho.
The phrase is used as a verb to describe the process of becoming less excited.
Meaning: To become less excited (verb)
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, dwo wo ho means 'calm your body/self'. It is composed of the verb dwo (to be calm/peaceful), the pronoun wo (you) and the particle ho (body/self), literally meaning 'calm your body/self'.
Did you know?
- The word dwo is used in traditional Akan naming practices. A child born after a period of family strife might be given a name containing this root to signify the arrival of peace.
- The word dwo is closely linked to the concept of coolness. In Twi culture, a 'cool' heart or spirit is the primary metaphor for peace and emotional stability.
- In Twi, many emotional states are not just felt in the mind, but are described as physical sensations located in the ho, or body.
Examples in context
- Dwo wo ho.Calm down.
- Ɛsesɛɛ wo ani, dwo wo ho.You are angry, calm down.
- Dwo wo ho na yɛnkɔ.Calm down so we can go.
Example conversation
Kwame is pacing nervously while waiting for news.
- AfiaKwame, dwo wo ho.Kwame, calm down.
- KwameƐyɛ den, Afia.It is difficult, Afia.
- AfiaDwo wo ho paa.Just really calm down.
- KwameMɛyɛ.I will.
