How to Say “Shut Up” in Maltese

By Derek Declan • Updated October 1, 2026

osku

osku is the Maltese way to say "shut up".

This phrase is used to command someone to stop talking.

Meaning: "Stop talking." (intj)

Did you know?

While 'osku' functions as a command to be quiet, it is also used physically to mean 'close' as in 'close the door'.
If you want to be slightly less aggressive than using 'osku', you might use the word 'issett', which functions more like 'be quiet' or 'settle down'. It shifts the focus from the act of closing a mouth to the act of calming a situation.
The command 'osku' can sometimes be used metaphorically in Maltese to mean 'stop it' regarding an annoying behavior, not just speech.

Example conversation

Justin and Jessica are arguing during a movie.

Justin

Osku, qed nisma' il-film!
Shut up, I'm listening to the movie!
Jessica

Ma qed ngħid xejn, Justin.
I'm not saying anything, Justin.
Justin

Qed tkellem xorta.
You are still talking.
Jessica

Dak x'inhuma!
That's it!

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About The Author

Derek Declan

مرحبًا (Hello), I am Derek. As a lover of languages and cultures, I have an unstoppable passion for the Arabic culture and language. My wanderlust often takes me on journeys across the Arab world. Also, a self-proclaimed foodie, unleashing my culinary skills to recreate traditional dishes like hummus and bread, is my favourite pastime. My interest in Arabic also led me to Maltese, its Mediterranean relative written in Latin letters, and I now write guides on Maltese too. My interest in Arabic is not merely linguistic, but I indulge in breaking down societal norms and cultural subtleties.

Derek DeclanHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.

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