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 Acholi 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 Acholi can be more casual and less formal than the standard greetings. Here are some examples
"Adaa!" - 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.
| Acholi | English |
| Adaa! | Really!, yes! |
| Dina | Beat him/her |
| Padi | Slap him/her |
| Ocokora | Useless person. Translating to some one who fetched burn grass. |
| Lacaro gak lacaro | Villager remain a villager. Translated as where ever they go their character remains same |
Please note that "Adaa" 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
| Acholi | English |
| Akulum(kolo lweti mi agiki i wi mi ariyo) | Game where you ask for something from your peers and get it. You put last finger on the second last and say Akulum. |
| Goyo keca | Giving blessing(elders to young ones) |
| Wacha, tita, kopa, boka | Tell me |
Farm
Here are some general farming-related terms and their approximate translations:
| Acholi | English |
| kodi | Seeds |
| atye ka pito kodi | I am sowing seeds. |
| Atye ka kac | I am harvesting. |
| Atye ka pur i poto | I am cultivating the field. |
Kodi is pronounce ko - ndi in Acholi
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
| Acholi | English |
| otol | wire |
| okubi | internet, website |
| tet okubi | artificial intelligence |
| nyo ateta | machine |
Business
colloquial in business are as follows:
| Acholi | English |
| cat | business |
| ot cat | shop |
| mic | give |
| well | how much |
Health
colloquial in health are as below:
| Acholi | English |
| aonda opiu | TB(tuber closes) |
| cwer cwiny | My heart painful |
| cong wil | knee is dislocated |
| cogi lweti | Finger nail |
Science
colloquial in science are as follows:
| Acholi | English |
| tobi me yebo congo | yeast for making beer |
| congo ongwal | Tiny fruits grow above ground. |
| piba | barrel |
| Atodok | Frog |
Engineering
colloquial in engineering are as follows:
| Acholi | English |
| payo bambara | making stool |
| yibo pem | making bridge |
| teto guele | making bed |
| payo dogola | making door |
Energy
Colloquial in energy are as follows:
| Acholi | English |
| Mac | Electricity, fire |
| mac pii | hydrogen |
| yat mac | electricity pole |
| tet lieto ki ngyico | heater or cooler |
| Mac ceng | solar |
Love
Colloquial in love are as follows:
| Acholi | English |
| Bange | Sex |
| Labal nyinya | Spoil my name |
| meya | girl friend, boy friend |
| adundo | shortie |
Bange is pronounce Bang-nge.
Religious
colloquial in religious are as follows:
| Acholi | English |
| acuer | church choirs |
| latela | leader |
| giri | bible |
| lonebi | disciples |