South Africanisms
weird and wonderful things about south africa and its people
in some parts of South Africa we have a pretty heart stopping collection of creepy crawlies. We call them “Goggas” which comes from the Khoi San word meaning creeping things.
Submitted by Zollie Tshabalala
“Rooineks” Is the name the boers gave to the English settlers in the old days because their necks were always sunburnt from the harsh South African sun. The name stuck and you still see a fair amount of sunburnt necks about.
Submitted by Derrick Le Roux
"A Boer Maak a Plan" Afrikaans colloquialism meaning that no matter what the obstacles are, us South Africans can sort it out. It speaks to our no nonsense sense of the world.
Submitted by Jean De Villiers
“Mzansi” has of late been really popularised by our national broadcaster. it has come to mean South Africa and comes from the Xhosa word for South.
Submitted by Jakes Madala
"Sharp Sharp" a lovely expression that can mean so many things, but all upbeat and positive. Can be a greeting, a farewell, an agreement or just to express enthusiasm.
Submitted by Shaun O'Connel
“Bilksem” is a wonderful South Africanism that basically means "we’re going to give them a hiding” Often a way to explain the punishent we’re going to mete out on an opposing sports team.
Submitted by Charles Williams
“Jizlaaik” is another wonderfully descriptive word we have for “Goodness gracious!” or “Oh My!” so we might say
"jizlaaik my China if South Africa wins the cricket i skeem we should have a dop or two to celebrate”
Submitted by Delarey Potgieter
“laaitie” is an affectionate word for a younger person particularly a son so you might say “My laaitie is taking his bokkie to a flik tonight. “Bokkie” in this context would mean his sweetheart and not his pet Springbok.
Submitted by Eric Van Staden
Eish! - Substitute any of the following: No shit! Dang! Holy Cow! Ouch! You're kidding! Bummer! Oh well. Geez!
Submitted by Mark Upton
"LADUMA" Pronounced LA-DOOO-MAH is a popular cheer used at footbal matches to celebrate a goal being scored. shouted loud, with the emphasis on the middle DOOOO this is exaltation at its height (well in so far as sport can get you ecstatic anyway)
Submitted by Angel Witbooi
