18 slang words that are part of South Africa's culture
These are some of the words you’re most likely to hear when walking the streets of South Africa.
South Africa is known as the Rainbow Nation, and we pride ourselves on Ubuntu and having people from different cultures, tribes and backgrounds living together.
With 12 official languages, our diversity can be heard in the different languages we speak and the words we use every day.
The beautiful thing is that our love for each other extends beyond the food we eat, the music we enjoy and the traditions we celebrate. We often borrow words and expressions from each other’s cultures and languages, creating a uniquely South African way of speaking.
As we wrap up Heritage Month, we look at some of the popular slang words and expressions you’re most likely to hear on the streets of Durban and other parts of South Africa.
If you’re planning to visit the country, especially Durban, one of South Africa’s major tourist destinations, it may be useful to familiarise yourself with some of these words.
Lekker
Lekker is an Afrikaans word that is now used across different groups and nationalities. It generally means nice, good or delicious, depending on the context.
Robot
In South Africa, a robot is not necessarily something from a science-fiction movie that's going to replace humans. It is commonly known as a traffic light.
You may also hear the term “robot peppers”, which refers to green, yellow and red peppers, inspired by the colours of a robot.
Eita
Eita is a popular slang greeting, particularly among young people. It is generally used to greet someone.
Howzit
Howzit or Howzit, my China? (How are you, my friend?), is another popular South African greeting. Howzit is a shortened way of asking, “How are you?” or “How are things going?”
Ekse
Ekse is another casual greeting commonly heard in South African communities. It can be used to get someone’s attention or greet someone, depending on the context.
My bra
My bra is a casual way of referring to a friend or “my brother”. You might hear someone say, “My bra, how are you?” when greeting a friend.
Yellow bone
Yellow bone is a slang term used to describe someone with a light complexion.
Now now
Now now is one of those uniquely South African expressions that can be confusing to outsiders. It generally means something will happen shortly, although it does not necessarily mean immediately. So when someone says "I'm leaving now now", chances are they are nowhere near ready to leave.
Cheese boy or cheese girl
Cheese boy or cheese girl refers to someone who lives a soft or comfortable life, or someone who is perceived privileged.
Sharp sharp
Sharp sharp can mean okay, cool, agreed or that something is sorted. It can also be used when ending a conversation or confirming that everything is fine.
My laatie
My laatie is another casual term used to refer to a young man, friend or brother.
Spy kos
Kos is an Afrikaans word which simply means food. Spy kos, however, refers to a mixture of different foods, particularly street food that combines several ingredients such as atchaar, polony, bread, beans, etc.
Span
Span is an Afrikaans word meaning team, but it also means work or a job. It is commonly used when referring to going to work or having a job.
Bathong
Bathong is an expression used to show shock, surprise or disbelief. Depending on the situation, it can be used the same way as "wow", "what" or "I can't believe it".
Ma se kind
Ma se kind is another Afrikaans term that directly translates to mother's child. But it also refers to calling someone a brother or sister who's not necessarily your sibling. It is a casual way of referring to someone as a friend.
Gawul
Gawul or gawulo refers to food.
Sgela
Sgela means school.
6/9
6/9 is slang for peeing or going to urinate.
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