Phrases

Greetings & Introductions

Start conversations the Wolof way with respectful greetings. Each card shows the Senegalese and Gambian dialects next to one another so you can switch depending on where you are traveling.

How are you?

formal

Senegal

Nanga def?

Gambia

Nanga def?

Standard opener after the initial "Salaam aleekum".

I am fine, thank you.

Senegal

Maa ngi ci jàmm, jërëjëf.

Gambia

Mangi ci jam, jerrejef.

Literally "I am in peace, thank you." "Maa ngi fii rek" (I am just here) is also common.

Good morning

Senegal

Jàmm nga fanane?

Gambia

Jam nga fanane?

Literally “Did you spend the night in peace?” The reply is "Jàmm rekk" (Peace only).

Good evening

Senegal

Jàmm nga yendoo?

Gambia

Jam nga yendoo?

Literally "Did you spend the day in peace?" The reply is "Jàmm rekk" (Peace only).

Welcome

hospitality

Senegal

Dalal ak jàmm

Gambia

Dalal ak jam

Literally "Host in peace" (singular). Use "Dalaleen ak jàmm" for plural.

See you later

Senegal

Ba beneen yoon.

Gambia

Ba beneen yoon.

Literally "Until another time".

Peace be with you

Senegal

Salaam aleekum.

Gambia

Salaam aleekum.

The universal greeting, preceding all others. The required reply is "Maleekum salaam".