Because some things just don’t sound the same in English…
1: “Ah deh ya.”
Translation: I’m here / I’m surviving.
Why we love it: It’s more than just “I’m okay”—it’s a whole vibe. It says, “Life hard, but meh still standin’.”
2: “Leh me tell yuh somtin…”
Translation: Let me tell you something.
Why we love it: It always means drama coming. Get your popcorn—it’s story time.
3:“Ow man!”
Translation: Come on! / Seriously?
Why we love it: It can be frustration, shock, or even affection—depends on the tone and how long the “Ow” is stretched.
4:“Yuh done know.”
Translation: You already know.
Why we love it: It’s shorthand for – We get each other, no explanation needed.
5: “He nah gat sense.”
Translation: He has no sense.
Why we love it: Whether it’s a cousin who tried to climb a coconut tree in slippers or a politician—this phrase fits.
6: “Small days.”
Translation: Childhood / when we were younger.
Why we love it: It’s that sweet, nostalgic way of remembering barefoot days, mango trees, and marbles in the yard.
7: “Tek yuh eye an pass.”
Translation: Ignore it / let it go.
Why we love it: A lesson in grace, maturity… and choosing peace over bacchanal.
8: “Yuh hard ears.”
Translation: You don’t listen / you’re stubborn.
Why we love it: Every Guyanese child has heard this—especially just before getting a cut-tail.
9: “Mi nah able.”
Translation: I can’t deal / I don’t have the energy.
Why we love it: The universal Guyanese response to stress, foolishness, or too much wuk.
10: “Leff am.”
Translation: Leave it/him/her alone / forget it.
Why we love it: Said with a wave of the hand, it’s both dismissive and wise. Don’t trouble trouble.
Which phrase is your favourite? Drop it in the comments—or share one from your “small days” memory box.
Let’s keep Creolese alive, one sweet phrase at a time.
Discover more from Things Guyana
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
