likkle gal
The English phrase "little girl" is translated into Jamaican as likkle gal.
The term is used to refer to a female child.
Meaning: a female child (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
This phrase is a phonetic spelling of "little girl" using Jamaican Patois phonology, where "little" becomes likkle and "girl" becomes gal.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
likkle gal is a colloquial expression used in everyday Jamaican speech. In informal settings, you may also hear the term Lickle gyal used to refer to a little girl. Another common informal term for a child or young girl is Pickney.
Did you know?
- In Jamaican music and dancehall culture, the term gyal is frequently used for women of all ages, moving far beyond the meaning of a 'little girl'.
- In Jamaica, calling a young woman likkle gal can sometimes feel patronizing or overly familiar depending on the tone, even if it is not intended to be.
- While likkle gal describes a female child, the word pickney is gender-neutral and can refer to any child regardless of sex.
Examples in context
- Di likkle gal a play roun' di corner.The little girl is playing around the corner.
- Dat likkle gal sweet like honey.That little girl is as sweet as honey.
- Mi see a likkle gal a walk a road.I saw a little girl walking on the road.
Example conversation
Andre and Latoya are talking at a community park.
- AndreLatoya, look at di likkle gal roun' di tree.Latoya, look at the little girl around the tree.
- LatoyaShe too cute, Andre.She is so cute, Andre.
- AndreYeah, she look like she happy.Yeah, she looks like she is happy.
- LatoyaShe jus' a likkle gal a enjoy herself.She is just a little girl enjoying herself.
