kanga monoko
The phrase "shut up" in Lingala is kanga monoko.
This phrase is used as an imperative command to tell someone to stop talking.
Meaning: "Stop talking." (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the verb kanga (to close/lock/tie) and the noun monoko (mouth).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The phrase is informal. The phrase is an imperative command and is considered blunt or rude depending on the tone used.
How does it change in a sentence?
To specify 'your mouth', you add the possessive pronoun na yo to the end of the phrase, resulting in kanga monoko na yo.
Did you know?
- Telling an elder to kanga monoko is considered such a severe social transgression that it can result in a heavy reprimand.
- While kanga monoko is a direct command to stop talking, the word kanga itself can also mean 'to be arrested' or 'to be trapped' in certain contexts.
- The word kanga was borrowed into Lingala from the Bangi language.
Examples in context
- Kanga monoko!Shut up!
- Kanga monoko mbala oyo!Shut up this time!
Example conversation
Grace is trying to examine a patient who won't stop talking.
- GraceKanga monoko mwa ntango!Shut up for a moment!
- PatientNzoko nalingi koloba.But I want to speak.
- GraceKanga monoko mpo nasalisa yo.Shut up so I can help you.
- PatientMalamu, naza kimuki.Fine, I am quiet.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries kanga, CC BY-SA 4.0.
