mi waan yuh
The English phrase "I want you" is expressed in Jamaican as mi waan yuh.
Additionally, the informal phrase Mi want yuh bad is used in Jamaican Patois to express a strong desire for someone.
Did you know?
- In many social contexts in Jamaica, expressing desire using mi waan yuh is considered much more direct and provocative than the English equivalent. It carries a level of bluntness that can change the social dynamic of a conversation.
- The phrase mi waan yuh originates from the direct contact between English settlers and West African linguistic structures. This hybridity is why the pronoun usage often differs from standard English rules.
- While mi waan yuh is understood, a speaker might use mi waan yuh fi followed by a verb to express that they want you to do something specific.
Examples in context
- Mi waan yuh fi stay wid mi.I want you to stay with me.
- Yuh know seh mi waan yuh.You know that I want you.
- Mi waan yuh fi come home now.I want you to come home now.
Example conversation
Tanesha and Andre are talking on the phone late at night.
- TaneshaAndre, mi waan yuh.Andre, I want you.
- AndreTanesha, yuh really mean dat?Tanesha, do you really mean that?
- TaneshaYes, mi waan yuh right now.Yes, I want you right now.
- AndreAlright, mi a come over.Alright, I am coming over.
