Language/Wolof/Culture/Expressions-of-Love
As a Wolof language teacher, I believe that it is essential to understand the importance of family and relationships in Wolof culture. In this lesson, we will be discussing how Wolof speakers express affection and love towards family members and significant others.
Finish this lesson and explore these related pages: Self medication & Family.
Vocabulary
Before we dive into the expressions of love in Wolof, let's first take a look at the vocabulary used to describe family members and relationships.
| Wolof | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| Famille | /fa.mi.j/ | Family |
| Pare | /pa.re/ | Parent |
| Yaye | /ja.je/ | Mother |
| Bàyyi | /ba.ji/ | Father |
| Tonton | /ton.ton/ | Uncle |
| Tàyyi | /ta.ji/ | Aunt |
| Cër | /sɛr/ | Brother |
| Ndey | /nde.j/ | Sister |
| Mbëggeel | /mbɛ.ɡeːl/ | Husband |
| Jigéen | /dʒi.ɡeːn/ | Wife |
| Mazalikat | /ma.za.li.kat/ | Fiancé/Fiancée |
Expressing Love
In Wolof culture, family is fundamental, and it is essential to express love and affection towards family members. Let's take a look at some common expressions of love in Wolof:
- Naka laaj bi: I love you (said to a significant other)
- Nelaw Yaye: I love my mother
- Nelaw Cër: I love my brother
- Nelaw Ndey: I love my sister
- Nelaw mazalikat bi: I love my fiancé/fiancée
It is also common for Wolof speakers to show their affection through gestures such as hugging, holding hands, and kissing on the cheek. These gestures are often used to greet family members and loved ones.
Conclusion
In this lesson, we have learned about the vocabulary used to describe family members and relationships in Wolof culture. We have also explored common expressions of love in Wolof and how Wolof speakers show their affection towards family members and significant others.
Remember, expressing love towards family and loved ones is essential in Wolof culture. Practice using these expressions with your family and loved ones to show them how much you care.
Excellent job on conquering this lesson! Consider delving into these related pages: Gift of ceremonies & Origin of the Word Wolof.
Videos
Apprendre le Wolof – 10 expressions romantiques pour la Saint ...
Other Lessons
- Family
- Ecology and Wildlife
- Time
- Giving directions
- Self medication
- Caste or social stratification considerations
- Festivals and Celebrations
- Traditional Clothing
- The concept of “Inchallah”
- Funerals
Sources