Languages Description
South Africa has 11 official languages : English, Afrikaans, Zulu, Ndebele, Swazi, Sotho, Tsonga, Tswana, Pedi, Venda and Xhosa. Although Afrikans is very common English is normally used as the "business" language, especially with tourists.
Capetonians have developed a style of English all of their own, much of which will baffle you !!! Here is a small selection of words that may help you -
Yebo - Yes
Howzit ? - Hello ,how are you ?
Lekker - Good, nice , great.
Baie Dankie - Thank you very much
Squiz - Take a look at.
Jol - Have fun.
Kief - Cool,good
Siff - Horrible, yuk.
Oke or O - Man or bloke.
Broer - Brother, mate.
Lanie - Smart,posh.
Braai - Barbeque.
Rooibos - Local tea,caffine free.
Bobotie - Popular local dish made from curried mince topped with savoury egg.
Dom Pedro - Ice cream blended with Kahula or whiskey,drink or desert ! Have one they are great !!!
Also to help you understand some sayings -
"Just now" - refers to sometime later that day,or possibly not or ever !
"Call you or be with you shortly" - Do not take this as almost immediate. this actually means later that day or possibly never !! In fact the most annoying and frustrating thing with Capetonians is that hardly anyone calls you back...ever, except if you owe them money !!!
"Now" - Means soon but not at this exact moment !!!
Good Luck......................
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