èébú
The Yoruba verb to insult is èébú.
The term èébú refers to the act of being insensitive, insolent or rude to someone. While èébú represents the concept of an insult, there are several specific informal terms used to target a person's intelligence, character or social value.
Meaning: to be insensitive, insolent, or rude to (someone) (verb)
Which one should you use?
While èébú is the general term for the act of insulting, specific words are used depending on the nature of the insult: Ode targets intelligence, Oloshi targets usefulness and Ọmọbúrúkú targets character.
Did you know?
- In Yoruba culture, insulting an elder is not just seen as 'rude' but as a spiritual breach of ọmọlúàbí, the ideal of a person of good character. Such an act can result in the offender being required to perform a formal apology to restore communal harmony.
- An insult directed at a person's name or family line can trigger a formal ritual of apology to restore the social equilibrium of the community.
- Because identity is so tied to lineage, an insult directed at a person's ancestors is often considered more severe than an insult directed at the individual.
Examples in context
- Oloshi! Kí lo n ṣe e?Good-for-nothing! What is wrong with you?
Example conversation
Folake and Olumide are arguing about a misunderstanding.
- FolakeOlumide, ìdí lè èébú mi bẹ́ẹ̀?Olumide, why did you insult me like that?
- OlumideÈmi kò èébú ẹ́ rárá, Folake.I did not insult you at all, Folake.
- FolakeỌ̀rọ̀ rẹ burú gan-an.Your words were very mean.
- OlumideJọ̀wọ́ dáríjì mí.Please forgive me.
