Phrases
Travel & Transport
Get around in Dakar, Thiès, Banjul or Serrekunda with confidence. Each card shows the Senegalese and Gambian dialects next to one another so you can switch depending on where you are traveling.
Senegal
Ana ...?
Gambia
Ana ...?
Replace the ellipsis with the destination.
Senegal
Naka laa man a dem ...?
Gambia
Naka laa man a dem ...?
Literally "How can I go to ...?" Replace the ellipsis with the destination.
Senegal
Càmmooñ.
Gambia
Cammoony.
Senegal
Ndeyjoor.
Gambia
Ndeyjoor.
Senegal
Jub.
Gambia
Jub.
Senegal
Jëgé.
Gambia
Jege.
Senegal
Sore.
Gambia
Sore.
Senegal
Fan la gare bus bi nekk?
Gambia
Fan la garage bus bi nekk?
Gambians often use “garage” for transport depots, while Senegalese use “gare” (French for station).
Senegal
Bëgg naa dem Dakar.
Gambia
Begg naa dem Banjul.
Bëgg naa / Begg naa means "I want to". Swap town names as needed.
Senegal
Ñaata la tiket bi?
Gambia
Nyaata la ticket bi?
Ñaata la means "How much is it?".
Senegal
Bu la neexee, taagal fi.
Gambia
Bu la neekhee, taagal fi.
Taagal is the correct verb for "stop/pause" (a vehicle). Bu la neexee means "please." (If it pleases you).
Senegal
Kan la bus bi di génn?
Gambia
Kan la bus bi di génn?
Kan (when), génn (go out/leave).
Senegal
Dinaa wàcc ci marché bi.
Gambia
Dinaa wach chi lumo bi.
Wàcc / Wacc is the verb "to get off/descend." Lumo is the Gambian word for weekly market.
Related Categories
Greetings
Start conversations the Wolof way with respectful greetings.
Polite Expressions
Say thank you, please, and excuse me the Wolof way.
Introductions
Introduce yourself, ask for names, and share where you are from.
Farewells
Wrap up conversations with respectful goodbyes and good nights.
Market & Shopping
Negotiate prices and understand market slang.
Everyday Life
Useful sentences for your daily routines and interactions.
Questions & Clarifications
Ask for directions, information, and help in Wolof.
Health & Emergency
Express how you feel and ask for medical help.
Dining & Eating
Order food, ask for water, and compliment the chef.
Family & Social
Talk about your family, friends, and relationships.
Romance & Relationships
Express love and affection in Wolof.