I though it might be interesting to compare how some of the terms we commonly use differ between Americans and South Africans. I’ll update this note as I encounter more interesting terms, so check back again later:
American term -> South African term
- Cool, Nice, Great or Awesome -> Lekker (pronounced Lekka)
- Traffic Light -> Robot
- Calender -> Diary
- French Fries -> Chips
- How are you? I’m Fine. -> How izzit? Shop Shop. (actually sharp sharp)
- Green Peppers or Bell Peppers -> Peppadew
- Rent a Car -> Hire a Car
- Diet Coke -> Coke Light
- Pickup Truck -> Bakkie (pronounced Bucky)
- Lease a Property -> Let a Property
- The letter Z -> Zed
- Hangover -> Babalaz
- The face of a drunkard -> Puza Face
- Woop yo Ass -> Bluxum you (not sure of the spelling)
