dɛn na esii
dɛn na esii is the Twi way to say "what happened".
This phrase is used to ask for an explanation of a specific event that has already taken place.
What does it mean word for word?
This phrase is composed of dɛn (what), na (that/which) and esii (it happened).
Did you know?
- The verb sii in dɛn na esii can also describe a physical object standing upright, linking the concept of an event 'happening' to the act of something 'standing up'.
- Asking dɛn na esii at a funeral is considered a social blunder in Ghana, as it can come across as insensitive to the family's grief.
- While 'dɛn na esii' is a direct question, if you want to express shock or disbelief at a situation, you might simply repeat 'Dɛn?' with a rising tone.
Examples in context
- Dɛn na esii wɔ sukuu no mu?What happened at school?
- Dɛn na esii paa no?What actually happened?
Example conversation
Kwesi sees Akua looking sad in the living room.
- KwesiAkua, dɛn na esii?Akua, what happened?
- AkuaMe mmoa no agya me.My friend left me.
- KwesiSɛn na ɛyɛ saa?How did that happen?
- AkuaYɛn kasa nti na ɛyɛ saa.It happened because of our conversation.
