Colloquial
Expressions, in the context of language, refer to specific phrases or combinations of words that are commonly used to convey a particular meaning or sentiment. Expressions are often idiomatic, meaning their meaning cannot be deduced from the individual words used.
Expressions are an integral part of communication as they allow us to convey emotions, cultural nuances, and specific ideas more effectively. They can vary across languages and cultures, and learning expressions can greatly enhance one's ability to understand and communicate in a particular language.
Expressions can take various forms, such as greetings, farewell phrases, polite requests, expressions of gratitude, or idiomatic phrases etc unique to a language or region. They add colour and depth to conversations and reflect the cultural values and customs of a community.
In the context of Dholuo language, expressions can include common colloquial, greetings, saying or interrogative specific to Acholi culture.
COLLOQUIAL
Colloquial language refers to the informal, everyday language used in casual conversations and interactions. It often deviates from formal or standard language in terms of vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. Colloquial language reflects the natural variations, regional dialects, and cultural nuances of a specific community or group of people.
Greeting
Colloquial greetings in Dholuo can be more casual and less formal than the standard greetings. Here are some examples
"Adier!" - This is a very casual way of wondering that can be used at any time. It's often used among friends or people of the same age group.
Dholuo | English |
Adier! | Really!, yes! |
Nadi | Hi |
Idhi nadi? | How are you doing? |
An maber wuod ma | I am ok, son to my mom ? |
Ruoth omed umi gi bwombeni jakababa | May the Lord covered you unto his wings father's man |
Please note that "Adier" is more casual and might not be appropriate for all situations, especially when speaking to elders or in a formal context. Always be aware of your surroundings and use language that is appropriate for the situation.
Requests
Dholuo | English |
Ojana , adwaro ori chiro | Young man , I want to send you to the market |
An thuolo jaduong , ora aora | I am free old man, just send me |
Wacha, tita, kopa, boka | Tell me |
Farm
Here are some general farming-related terms and their approximate translations:
Dholuo | English |
kodi | Seeds |
Apidho kodhi | I am sowing seeds. |
Akeyo | I am harvesting. |
Apuro pwodho | I am cultivating the field. |
Kodhi is pronounce ko - dhi in Dholuo
These translations are approximate, and the actual phrases used can vary among different Acholi-speaking communities. As a tonal language, the tone of voice can change the meaning of a word in Acholi. Therefore, these phrases should be used with caution.
Please note that colloquial or informal expressions in a language can vary significantly based on the region and the individual speaker, and they can also evolve over time, especially in areas like farming where practices may change due to advances in technology and changes in society.
Technology
Colloquial in technology are as follow
Dholuo | English |
tol | wire |
mbui | internet, website |
Rieko molosi | artificial intelligence |
Masin | machine |
Business
colloquial in business are as follows:
Dholuo | English |
Ohala | business |
Duka | shop |
mich | give |
Adi | how much |
Health
colloquial in health are as below:
Dholuo | English |
aonda guogi/kahera | TB(tuber closes) |
Chunya lit | My heart painful |
Chonga owil | knee is dislocated |
Kok lweti | Finger nail |
Science
colloquial in science are as follows:
Dholuo | English |
Thowi mar loso kongo | yeast for making beer |
Olemo matindo otwi ewi lowo | Tiny fruits grow above ground. |
Pipa | barrel |
Ogwal | Frog |
Engineering
colloquial in engineering are as follows:
Dholuo | English |
Loso situl | making stool |
Loso olalo | making bridge |
Loso otanda/ng'ango | making bed |
Loso dhoot/thigo | making door |
Energy
Colloquial in energy are as follows:
Dholuo | English |
Sitima/mach | Electricity, fire |
mac pii | hydrogen |
yiend sitima | electricity pole |
heater or cooler | |
Mach mar chieng | solar |
Love
Colloquial in love are as follows:
Dholuo | English |
Toyo ngono | Sex |
Keth nyinga | Spoil my name |
Osiepa / Jadiya | girl friend, boy friend |
machuok | shortie |
Bange is pronounce Bang'-ng'e.
Religious
colloquial in religious are as follows:
Dholuo | English |
Jower mag kanisa. | church choirs |
Jatelo | leader |
Muma | bible |
Jolup | disciples |
Jayalo | Preacher |