Nigerian talking English | Pulse Nigeria

Nigerians have crafted unique expressions of English, some may refer to it as Nigerian English.

However, every culture has its peculiarities with English language.

  • You're completely irrelevant in the grand scheme of things
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    This is a simple word of rebuke when a person is overstepping their boundaries.

    2. I’m not financially buoyant at the moment

    Instead of saying they are broke, an euphemism that shows they don’t have money is when they say they are not financially buoyant.

    3. Come and be going

    This is a funny expression when you want someone to leave immediately. It sounds quite oxymoronic.

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    4. Why are you perambulating and gallivanting?

    Nigerian parents are famous for using these sayings on children who don’t sit in one place.

    5. See the way you are sweating like a Christmas goat

    I’ve always wondered if a Christmas goat sweats. It doesn’t even know what’s happening to him. But it means you are showing a display of nerves.

    6. We are sitting on a keg of gun powder

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    This is a warning, especially from an elder; it means we are crossing into dangerous territory.

    7. In toto

    This is one phrase that Nigerians actually use correctly; it means completely.

    8. Put to bed

    When Nigerians say this, they mean that a woman has just given birth. The correct phrase is "Put to birth"

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    9. Get out of here with immediate effect and automatic alacrity.

    Another famous saying by our Nigerian parents. It just means ‘get out’

    10. Let this be the first and last time that you will ever try it or think of trying it.

    Another word of warning by a Nigerian parent not to dare them another time.

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