waaw
The English phrase "ok" is translated into Wolof as waaw.
The word waaw is used as an interjection to express acknowledgement or acceptance of a statement or request.
Meaning: acknowledgement or acceptance (intj)
Did you know?
- In Senegal, a head shake that looks like 'no' to an English speaker can sometimes be a nuanced way of saying waaw or acknowledging a point during a conversation.
- While waaw means 'yes', using it to mean 'ok' in a business negotiation might sound too abrupt or dismissive to a Senegalese counterpart.
- Though waaw is the standard for 'ok', in urban areas like Dakar, speakers often blend it with French expressions like 'd'accord' to signal a more formal agreement.
Examples in context
- Waaw, d'accord.Alright, OK.This example shows how to use waaw to express agreement.Tatoeba #8776535 by ICThomas, translation #6577528 by Eccles17
- Waaw, loolu baax na.Ok, that is good.
Example conversation
Moussa asks Mariama to help him with a task.
- MoussaMungal ma lii, waay.Help me with this, please.
- MariamaWaaw, ma ngi fi.Ok, I am here.
- MoussaJërëjëf, Mariama.Thank you, Mariama.
- MariamaAmul problème.No problem.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry waaw, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
