Do you know how to speak Jamaican patois?

If you're on the island of Jamaica and you want to impress your Jamaican friends, try to learn the language they speak.

Jamaican Patois is a Creole language typically spoken in social settings.

Here are 24 Jamaican phrases you must know before you go.

Wah gwaan? - What's going on?

You can use this expression as a greeting or to ask a friend how they are doing or what's happening in their life.

Mi deh yah - I'm here

A common response to “Wah gwaan?” or simply to let someone know you have arrived. 

Small up yuhself - Make some room

If you find yourself in a crowded space, this is a polite way to ask someone to make space for you.

Mi soon come - I'll be right back

Say this to reassure others that you'll return shortly.

Mi nah go no weh - I'm not going anywhere

Use this phrase to let someone know you’re staying put. Use it in social settings when friends might worry you’re leaving.

Yuh good? - Are you okay?

It’s a simple question that shows concern for the other person’s well-being.

Big up yuhself - Congratulations/Well done

Use this to praise someone’s achievement. 

Likkle more - See you later

This is a casual way to say goodbye. It implies that you will see the person again soon.

Bless up - Stay blessed

A positive farewell that wishes someone well. 

Mi vex - I'm upset

If you’re feeling frustrated or angry, this phrase lets others know your emotional state.

Fi real - For real

Here's a  way to express sincerity or agreement. It’s often used to emphasize the truth of a statement.

Yuh a gwaan good - You're doing well

Offer encouragement with this phrase. It’s a great way to boost someone’s confidence.

Mi cyaan badda - I can't be bothered

Use this when you’re feeling overwhelmed or uninterested. It’s a way to express that you’re done with a situation.

Yuh waan come? - Do you want to come?

Invite someone to join you with this phrase. 

Mi a go - I'm going

Let others know you’re leaving. It’s direct and to the point.

Tek time - Slow down

A gentle reminder to take it easy. It’s useful in both physical and conversational contexts.

Mi a tell yuh - I'm telling you

Use this expression to emphasize the truth or importance of what you’re saying. 

Mi soon forward - I'll be back soon

Reassure others of your return. It’s a promise that you won’t be gone for long.

Tek care - Take care

A warm farewell that shows you care about the person’s well-being.

Walk good - Take care

Another way to say goodbye. It’s a wish for someone to have a safe journey.

Yuh waan some? - Do you want some?

Offer to share with this phrase. 

Yuh cyaan do dat - You can't do that

Let someone know their actions are unacceptable. It’s firm but not rude.

Mi nah lie - I'm not lying

Reassure others of your honesty. It’s a way to emphasize the truth.

Likkle bit - A little bit

Use this to indicate a small amount. It’s useful in various contexts.

How well do you speak Patois?

Are you familiar with any of these expressions?

If you can identify more than 10 then you're on the way to becoming an honorary Jamaican.