Beginner guide

Wolof greetings and polite phrases you'll actually use

These cover the most searched basics like thank you in Wolof and good morning in Wolof, with Senegal and Gambia spellings side-by-side.

Greeting first

In many Wolof-speaking contexts, you greet before anything else. If you only remember one opener, start with hello.

Politeness pays off

Even a short thank you earns smiles fast. Pair it with please when asking for something.

Translations

Thank you in Wolof

Jërëjëf. (Senegal) / Jerrejef. (Gambia)

The most common way to say thank you in Wolof.

Good morning in Wolof

Jàmm nga fanane? (Senegal) / Nanga fanaane? (Gambia)

Often literally asks if you spent the night in peace. Many people also greet with "Salaam aleekum" first.

How are you? in Wolof

Nanga def?

A standard follow-up after a greeting.

Yes in Wolof

Waaw.

A basic word you will use constantly.

I love you in Wolof

Nob naa la

A common romance phrase.

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