Màá gba ẹ lẹ́ṣẹ̀
The English phrase "I will slap you" is translated into Yoruba as Màá gba ẹ lẹ́ṣẹ̀.
This phrase is used as a threat to hit someone on the face with an open hand.
Did you know?
- Depending on the region, a slap can be described as pàpà or fẹ́ẹ́, using onomatopoeic words that mimic the sound of the hand hitting the skin.
- In traditional Yoruba social hierarchies, saying this phrase to an elder is considered a grave offense and a total breakdown of ọmọlúàbí, the concept of being a person of good character.
- Yoruba has different words for different types of hits, distinguishing a slap with an open palm from a strike with the back of the hand or a pinch.
Example conversation
Two siblings are arguing over a toy.
- OlumideFún mi ní nkan yẹn, Morenike!Give that to me, Morenike!
- MorenikeMi ò ní fún ẹ!I will not give it to you!
- OlumideMàá gba ẹ lẹ́ṣẹ̀ bí o bá jà!I will slap you if you fight!
- MorenikeOlumide, ó burú!Olumide, that is bad!
