So English is the official language of Namibia and all instruction after grade 5 is supposed to be in English. However, most students do not speak English at home. At home they might speak Afrikaans, German, Oshiwambo or any other of the multitude of tribal languages that usually start with an 'o'. When they do speak English everybody will use certain terms or phrases that twist our English words around. It's called Namlish and can be VERY confusing for native English speakers. Here are some examples:
Namlish
I’m coming now – I’m leaving, but I'll be back
Is it? – really?
Cool drink - pop
Hot Stuff - liquor
Now - not so much now. maybe in a while or maybe never
Now now - soon
Now now now - now
… and what what – ecetera
use to - usually (So confusing!)
small boy – any unmarried young man
to propose – to hit on
Mommy-mo can really use the now variations. It is almost as if she came up with it herself.
ReplyDeleteOkay, just so we're clear: Let's keep the "Hot Stuff" to a minimum, so you don't inadvertently "propose to small boys"...Wow, I am so "use to" this lingo. Gotta go now now now...
ReplyDeleteA. K.
I now have a new middle name---instead of "immer spat" (always late from German class at Hunter College) to "now now". Love the photos.
ReplyDeleteLove you, Mommy Mo