The Igbo Language Club October Newsletter

This month, we’re exploring popular Igbo slang and exclamations you can use in everyday conversation. Slang is a collection of informal words, expressions, and phrases used by specific groups of people within a particular culture or region. Using Igbo slang and exclamations can help you connect with other Igbo speakers and make conversations more engaging.

Interestingly, some Igbo expressions mirror common phrases found in African American Vernacular English (AAVE), such as “clock it,” “period,” and “no cap.” Others reflect similar phrases in Nigerian Pidgin English, such as “Na wa o!”, offering a meaningful way to connect the languages.

Below are Igbo expressions you can use in place of common English expressions you may already use in your everyday vocabulary.

Igbo Slang & Exclamations

• 💬 Nna ehn — “Wow!”, “Man!”, “Geez!”, or in Yoruba, “Omo!”

  Used to express surprise, frustration, excitement, or emphasis.

• 💬 Gbam — “Exactly” or “Period”

  An interjection used to show strong agreement or finality.

• 💬 O Chi m / Chi m O— “My God!” or “Oh my God!”

  An expression of shock, disbelief, or distress.

• 💬 Ị makwa — “You know” or “Clock it.”

  Used for emphasis of a point or to confirm something with the listener.

• 💬 Ọ dị egwu — “It is something”, “It is tragic”, or in Nigerian Pidgin, “Na wa o!” 

  Usually used as a negative exclamation. It conveys disbelief, concern, or exasperation depending on the context.

• 💬 Chaị — “Oh!”, “It’s a pity!”, or “Wow!”

  A versatile Igbo exclamation used to express surprise, shock, disappointment, grief, or admiration, depending on the context.

• 💬 Ọ bụ eziokwu — “It is the truth” or “No cap”

  An expression used to confirm or agree that something is correct or factual.

• 💬 Ewo — “Oops”, “Oh dear”, or “Oh my goodness”

  An interjection expressing shock, pity, or surprise.

• 💬 Ọ gịnị dị?! — “What is it?”, “What’s going on?”, or “What’s the matter?”

  A phrase that can be used in a casual, playful, or informal way to check in or show curiosity.

For more Igbo phrases and proper pronunciation, check out the creators who inspired this post: @swn.ok & @chee_zaramm

Resources for Learning 📓

Want to learn a specific grammar-related topic from a native Igbo speaker? Check out the archive for a free collection of previous Igbo Language Club meetings and lessons.

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Stay tuned for next month’s newsletter, and remember to make language learning a daily practice. Ka ọ dị! (let it be/goodbye)!