Language/Twi/Vocabulary/Health
Hi Twi learners! 😊
In this lesson, you will learn Twi health vocabulary that can help you discuss health issues and seek medical assistance if needed. We will also explore cultural information related to the healthcare system in Ghana.
Don't hesitate to look into these other pages after completing this lesson: Akan Calendar & Common Foods.
Common Illnesses and Symptoms[edit | edit source]
When you or someone you know is not feeling well, it is important to describe the symptoms to a doctor or a nurse. Here are some common illnesses and symptoms in Twi:
| Twi | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| abofra biara na ɔne nsa | ah-BO-fra bee-ah-RAH nah OH-nay SAH | fever in a child |
| nppa | En-PAH | diarrhea |
| munsuro | moon-SUR-o | headache |
| mamso | MAM-so | stomach ache |
| osom na nnwom | oh-SOHM nah NUH-wom | common cold |
| NWOBRETUO | NWO-bre-twO | diabetes |
Here is an example dialogue:
- Person 1: Mamso na mibi da. (I have a stomachache.)
- Person 2: Ayekoo! Adwendwen na ahoa wo. Wo nko ara? (Sorry! Where is the pain specifically? Where else?)
Medical Facilities[edit | edit source]
If you need medical attention, here are some Twi words you should know when going to a hospital or clinic:
| Twi | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| aban | AH-bahn | hospital |
| kliniki | KLEE-nee-kee | clinic |
| duan | doo-AN | pharmacy |
| ɔhaw seka | oh-HAH-e seh-KAH | ambulance |
| ahoɔfɛ | ah-hoh-FEH | nurse |
| dokota | doh-KOH-tah | doctor |
Here is an example dialogue:
- Person 1: Mepɛ sɛ mihu aban. Mereka kliniki? (I want to go to the hospital. Where is the clinic?)
- Person 2: Adekyee! Kliniki no wɔ soɔnkron. Ɛde w'ani ewie? (Alright. The clinic is nearby. What's wrong with you?)
Medications[edit | edit source]
When you are prescribed medication, it is important to understand the instructions for taking the medication. Here are some Twi words related to medications:
| Twi | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| anoka | ah-NO-kah | tablet |
| sɛm | sehM | injection |
| kankam | kahn-KAHM | capsule |
| tuo | TWOO-oh | powder |
| nkutoo | n-KOO-toh | syrup |
| asram | AS-rahm | ointment |
Here is an example dialogue:
- Person 1: Mendwen sɛnea ɛyɛ anoka baako tu. (I don't know how to take this one tablet.)
- Person 2: Wosi mu sɛ ɛtu no pɛ? Nsu ne nkruma kyerɛ wo se, ɛtu no fɛfɛɛfɛ. (Did you read that you should take it with water? The doctor instructed you to take it after a meal.)
Culture and Health[edit | edit source]
Healthcare practices in Ghana blend western medicine and traditional medicine, and often include religious or spiritual elements. For example, some people may prefer to go to a traditional healer, such as a "fetish priest," for guidance on resolving health issues. In addition, people may use herbal remedies or attend religious gatherings to seek physical or emotional healing.
If you have any health concerns or questions, it is important to seek advice from a medical professional. To improve your Twi Vocabulary, you can also use the Polyglot Club website. Find native speakers and ask them any questions!
➡ If you have any questions, please ask them in the comments section below.
➡ Feel free to edit this wiki page if you think it can be improved. 😎
Other Lessons[edit | edit source]
- Food
- Days of the week
- Education
- Greetings
- Colors
- Animals
- Drinks
- Days of the Week
- How to say Good Bye?
Sources[edit | edit source]