The Jamaican language or rather the official language in Jamaica is Standard English. But, Jamaicans also speak Patois which is a dialect. Some people spell the word “Patois” as “Patwa.”

 

A Few Patois words and phrases:

Tan suh bak – laid back / relaxed

Ketch e – catch it

A nuh nutten – Jamaica expression meaning “It is not important”; “It is no big deal”.

A wa do yu? – Jamaican expression of concern which means “What is wrong with you?”

Ackee – National fruit of Jamaica. The tree bears large red and yellow fruits which, when ripe, burst into three sections revealing shiny black seeds atop a yellow aril which is the part that is eaten. The edible portion of the fruit is cooked, drained and sautéed with seasonings and codfish to make the national dish “ackee and saltfish”

Bandulu – Swindle

Beenie – Small; tiny.

Bashy – Fabulous; nice.

Baps – Expression made to show suddenness

Bangarang - Loud noise or commotion; old luggage.

Gwaan –  Term used when telling one to “Go on”.

Gimme – Expression used when saying “Give me”.

For expressions and patios words you can visit this site: http://www.visitjamaica.com/about-jamaica/jamaica-talk.aspx