Although english is Jamaica’s official language, the Jamaican patois is the first language or the “mother tongue” of most people. It is the language that most speak fluently and as such, they tend to use it when they need to express their deepest emotions. Here are six patois phrases and their meanings that Jamaicans use to express emotions:
1. Mi feel a way
When Jamaicans use this expression, they are usually expressing embarrassment or disappointment in how a situation has turned out. They’re saying the turn of events did not make them happy.
2. Mi rate you/Him/Her
This phrase is mostly used by Jamaican men and is usually directed at women they love and respect deeply. Saying “I love you” is often seen as weak but “mi rate you” is seen as a masucline way to show deep affection.
3. Mi feel nice
Used my many who frequent the party scene, this phrase expresses the excitement and heightened emotions that result from the consumption of liquor.
4. Spirit tek
Believe me, this is the oldest emotion known to Jamaicans. It simply refers to like or dislike for someone, especially without reasonable cause or evidence. If Jamaicans like you upon meeting you for the first time they’ll say, “mi spirit tek you” Conversely if they dislike you, they’ll say “Mi spirit don’t tek you.”
5. It bun mi
This expression translates to “it hurts me” – when Jamaicans use this phrase, they are simply saying something hurt them deeply.
6. Ignorant
Believe it or not, “ignorant” is used to express an emotion in Jamaican patois. The english meaning of the word is “lack of knowledge” but when Jamaicans say someone is ignorant, it simply means they are showing extreme anger.
What other phrases do Jamaicans use to express their emotions? Tell us in the comments below. Walk good!
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