noppil
The English phrase "shut up" is translated into Wolof as noppil.
noppil is used to tell someone to stop talking.
Meaning: "Stop talking." (intj)
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
noppil is an informal term used as a direct command. Depending on your tone, it can be perceived as rude or blunt.
How does it change in a sentence?
noppil is the imperative or command form of the verb.
Did you know?
- In Senegalese culture, using noppil toward an elder is considered a severe breach of social etiquette, regardless of the situation. Respect for age is so central that a direct command like 'shut up' can be seen as a profound insult.
- The verb root inside noppil refers more broadly to 'stopping' or 'ceasing' an action. This means the same root is used whether you are telling someone to stop talking or to stop walking.
- Because Wolof has a high degree of 'diglossia' with French, urban speakers in Dakar might swap noppil for the French Tais-toi to signal a different social class or level of education.
Examples in context
- Noppil rek.Just shut up.
- Noppil, duma la dégg.Shut up, I don't want to hear you.
- Noppil léegi!Shut up now!
Example conversation
A brother and sister are arguing in their living room.
- AstouMoussa, noppil!Moussa, shut up!
- MoussaLoolu deugulul.That is not true.
- AstouDama la bëgg de de, noppil rek.I want you to just shut up.
- MoussaWaaw, dégg naa.Okay, I hear you.
