yɛ ntɛm
The English phrase "hurry up" is translated into Twi as yɛ ntɛm.
yɛ ntɛm is used to tell someone to go faster, serving as a general instruction to increase speed or as a direct command to someone who is moving too slowly.
Meaning: go faster (verb)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase yɛ ntɛm is composed of the verb yɛ, which means "do" or "make" and the adverb ntɛm, which means "fast" or "quickly".
Did you know?
- While yɛ ntɛm is a direct command, using it with an elder or a person of high status could be seen as quite blunt or even disrespectful.
- The word yɛ in yɛ ntɛm is a versatile 'utility verb' that can mean 'do', 'make', 'be' or 'become' depending on the context.
- Depending on the tone used, yɛ ntɛm can shift from a helpful suggestion to a stern command, as Twi is a tonal language where pitch changes meaning.
Examples in context
- Yɛ ntɛm na yɛ nka mbusuɔ.Hurry up so we don't miss the bus.
- Yɛ ntɛm na yɛ nka aduane.Hurry up so we don't miss the food.
- Yɛ ntɛm na yɛ nka nkyɛ.Hurry up so we don't be late.
Example conversation
Kofi and Akua are leaving for a party.
- KofiAkua, yɛ ntɛm!Akua, hurry up!
- AkuaMe reba, kɔtɔ me ntɛm.I'm coming, give me a moment.
- KofiYɛ ntɛm, ɛyɛ anadwo.Hurry up, it is late.
- AkuaMe ba akum.I am here now.
