South African sayings can sometimes be confusing to foreigners but it is actually very simple to understand and to use. Braai, Ag, Eina and lekker is just a few of the uniquely South Africans words.

Here are some useful South African words:

Braai
What is a braai? It is the first thing you will be invited to when you visit South Africa. A braai is a backyard barbecue and it will take place regardless of the weather. So you will have to go even if it’s raining like mad. At a braai you will be introduced to a substance known as mieliepap (a traditional porridge made from corn)

Ag
This is one of the most useful South African words. Pronounced like the “ach” in the German “achtung”, it can be used to start a reply when you are asked a tricky question, as in: “Ag, I don’t know.” Or a sense of resignation: “Ag OK, I’ll have some more mieliepap then.” It can stand alone too as a signal of irritation.

Eina
Widely used by all language groups, this word,derived from the Afrikaans, means “ouch.” Pronounced:“aynah”.

Hey
Often used at the end of a sentence to emphasize the importance of what has just been said, as in “You’re only going to be in trouble , if you come in late again, hey?” It can also stand alone as a question. Instead of saying “excuse me?” or “pardon me?” when
you have not heard something directed at you, you can always say: “Hey?”

Izit?
This is another great word to use in conversations. Derived from the two words “is” and “it”, it can be used when you have nothing to contribute if someone
tells you something at a braai. For instance, if someone would say: “The Russians will succeed in their bid for capitalism once they adopt a work ethic and respect for private ownership.” It is quite appropriate to respond by saying: “Izit?”

Lekker
An Afrikaans word meaning nice, this word is used by all language groups to express approval. If you enjoyed a braai thoroughly, you can say: “Now that was lekk-errrrrrr!” while drawing out the last syllable.

Howzit
This is a universal South African greeting, and you will hear this word throughout the country. It is often accompanied with the word “Yes!” as in: “Yes, howzit?” In which case you answer: “No, fine.”

Now now
In much of the outside world, this is a comforting phrase: “Now now, it’s really not so bad.” But in South Africa, this phrase is used in the following manner: “Just wait, I’ll be there now now.” It means “a little after now”.

Source: onceinspired.co.za

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Kumkani welcomes all the visitors to our lovely country and we hope this word guide will help you to enjoy your trip.