baako
The Twi word for one is baako. Wiktionary also lists biakõ.
Meaning: cardinal number 1 (num)
Ways to say it
| Twi |
|---|
| baako |
| biakõ |
baako is used to denote the cardinal number one.
Which one should you use?
The forms baako and biakõ are both present.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form baako is used when the number one is the subject or object of a sentence, or when counting.
Did you know?
- In Twi, the word baako is used for the number 'one', but when you want to say 'a' or 'an' to indicate a single item, the word bi is often used instead.
- In many Akan contexts, saying 'one' is not just a number but can be part of a rhythmic counting system used in traditional music and dance to keep time.
- In Akan culture, the number baako is often associated with unity and the concept of a single divine source or creator.
Examples in context
- Ɛwɔ baako wɔ ha.There is one here.
- Baako nkoaa na ɛhia me.I only need one.
Example conversation
Kwame and Afia are buying fruit at a market.
- KwameAfia, wo pɛ mango?Afia, do you want a mango?
- AfiaAane, mepɛ baako.Yes, I want one.
- KwameƐyɛ, mɛgye baako ama wo.Okay, I will get one for you.
- AfiaMeda wo ase, Kwame.Thank you, Kwame.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “one” translations and entries baako, biakõ, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
