Patois vibes (Patwa)

Welcome to Jamaica & Jamaicans

Jamaica is a small island with a big spirit! "Wi Likkle but wi tallawah." meaning: We are a small Island but we are mighty. Jamaica is known for its natural beauty, bold flavors, and vibrant culture. Jamaica is home to some of the world’s most creative, resilient, and warm-hearted people. Jamaicans are full of pride, strength, and positive vibes—we live life with rhythm, laughter, and love. From our music and food to our Patois language and colorful expressions, everything about Jamaica is rich with energy and soul.

Patwa-di language of vibe!

Jamaican Patois is the lively, expressive language spoken by Jamaicans that’s full of rhythm, personality, and flavor! It mixes English with African, Spanish, Portuguese, French, and other influences—making it one-of-a-kind. Patois isn’t just how we talk, it’s how we vibe! Whether you’re a tourist, language lover, or a curious kid, learning Patois is like unlocking the heart of Jamaica—fun, bold, and full of life. Come chat wid wi and feel di vibes!

Respect
Big up yuhself
One love
Irie

Some popular Jamaican Patois phrases:

  1. Wah gwaan? – What’s going on? / How are you?

  2. Mi deh yah, yuh know. – I’m here, you know. (I’m doing well.)

  3. Mi soon come. – I’ll be back soon.

  4. Mi hungry bad. – I’m really hungry.

  5. Big up yuhself. – Respect / Take care

  6. Everything cris. – Everything is good / fine

  7. Mi love di vibes yah. – I love this vibe / atmosphere.

  8. Yuh alright? – Are you okay?

  9. Mi glad fi si yuh. – I’m happy to see you.

  10. Likkle more. – See you later.

You didn’t come this far to stop

Some popular Jamaican Patois words to learn:

  1. Wah gwaan – What’s going on? / How are you?

  2. Mi deh yah – I’m here / I’m doing well

  3. Irie – Everything is good / Nice vibes

  4. Pickney – Child

  5. Nyam – To eat

  6. Big up – Respect / Shout-out

  7. Bredrin / Sistren – Close male/female friend

  8. Likkle more – See you later

  9. Yuh good? – Are you okay?

  10. Mi soon come – I’ll be back soon (Jamaican soon 😄)