Uglish – Ugandan English – 101 for Visitors to Uganda

Uglish – Ugandan English -101 for Visitors to Uganda: An Introduction to Ugandan English called Uglish which is an ever evolving local English dialect.  Visitors to Uganda often find themselves intrigued and sometimes confused by the unique variations of English they encounter. This sensation arises from many words and phrases used in Ugandan English, commonly called “Uglish,” which are not only different from what they are accustomed to in their home countries but also carry a unique charm and cultural significance. Some expressions may be entirely unique to Uganda, while others may carry humorous or culturally specific connotations, adding to the intrigue of this linguistic landscape.

Welcome to Uganda, a vibrant country where Uglish is spoken by individuals from all walks of life, from government officials, including the President, to the local vendor on the street. One memorable phrase coined by the President—”another rap, another term in office”—reflects the lighthearted and witty nature of Uglish, showcasing how language can be both expressive and playful in a political context.

Many tourists express surprise by saying, “It sounds like English, but it has a different meaning.” This sentiment captures the essence of Uglish: while the language may sound familiar, the meanings and uses of phrases can vary widely. Uglish phrases frequently draw on humor and local customs, making them not only entertaining but also an insightful window into the everyday life of Ugandans. This unique blend of humor and cultural references in Uglish is sure to keep you engaged and entertained during your stay in Uganda.

Additionally, it is essential to acknowledge that Uganda has been recognized in recent studies as one of the best English-speaking countries on the African continent. This distinction highlights the country’s extensive history with English, which was introduced during colonial rule and has since evolved into a unique local variant. The development of Uglish is a testament to Uganda’s rich history and its people’s resilience and adaptability.

To help you navigate this fascinating linguistic landscape, we have compiled a list of basic Uglish phrases and their meanings. Familiarizing yourself with these expressions is not just a linguistic exercise but a key to unlocking a deeper understanding of Ugandan culture. It can significantly enhance your interactions and deepen your connection with the locals, making your experience in the country all the more enriching and exciting.

Uglish – Ugandan English – 101 for Visitors to Uganda

No matter where English is spoken worldwide, it eventually develops a unique local flavor—this has undoubtedly happened in Uganda. The rise of text messages, Facebook Messenger, and WhatsApp has accelerated the evolution of Ugandan English, often referred to as “Uglish.”

Uglish has become an integral part of Ugandan culture, which is evident not only in conversations among Ugandans but also in social media posts on platforms like Facebook and Twitter. Despite the concerns expressed by some members of the Ugandan intelligentsia and the advocacy for the virtues of standard English, Uglish is firmly established in how the language is used in Uganda. Interestingly, British or American English has become fashionable among some TV and radio presenters, with a few individuals even hiring coaches to help them sound more like speakers from those regions. Nonetheless, most Ugandans incorporate elements of Uglish into their communications.

Older Ugandans who received their education under British colonial rule and shortly after independence are generally less likely to use Uglish phrases. However, even President Museveni occasionally includes Uglish in his speeches.

Uglish is here to stay; it has become an essential part of local culture, with innovative words emerging regularly, especially among the younger generation. In contrast, Ugandan authors, writers, reporters, and bloggers often use standard British English. On the other hand, government and business communications tend to be overly formal, to the point of being rigid.

Below, you will find a simple guide to Uglish for visitors. We acknowledge that we may have missed your favorite sayings or phrases, and we plan to add more in the future. Uglish in Uganda has become an art form, often confusing visitors about what has just been said—just as Ugandans would feel in the U.K., Australia, Canada, or the U.S.A.

Uglish – Ugandan English – 101 for Visitors to Uganda

I need to make a short-Call

The short-call catches many visitors – some even offer their phone – it means going to the bathroom, washroom, W.C. whatever you call it in your part of the world.

Balance Please

In many other English-speaking countries – one asks for their change, which might not get you anywhere here – here you ask for the Balance.

Eating Money

That refers to a person stealing money through corruption and spending money like there is no tomorrow, going through enormous amounts of money. Eating at the table is when a person takes advantage of their position of power and takes advantage of their office stealing funds.

You are lost

You enter a home, an establishment such as a restaurant, and are greeted with “You are lost.” It is the same as “I’ve missed you” or “have not seen you for a long time.”

Now-now

Now -now merely is urgent, meaning “now” and not later. On the other end, “slowly-slowly” tells someone to have patience.

I’m on the way

You are sitting in a restaurant, and you had a noon luncheon appointment, and there is no sign of the person. You call them on the phone, and you get “I’m on the way,” or I’m reaching there,” sometimes even “I’ve reached,” all the while you will sit there for another hour. The African concept of time is different from the West and based more on relationships than punctuality.

Extend

If you are in a Ugandans way, and they cannot get through, you might hear “extend.” That means to move out of the way, move over. If they want to sit down on the sofa and there is no space, they will ask you to extend. Unfortunately, many visitors will need an explanation of what “extent” means.

Disturbing me

That one is not too hard to figure out. The word disturb means to bother someone to upset someone.

Are we together?

Are we of one mind? Do you understand what I am saying? You might also hear, “You get me?”

Slope down

Getting driving instructions from a Ugandan can often be quite different such as slope left, meaning go downhill to the left. After a while, you will know what is intended.

Borrow me some Money

It merely means “Lend me some money.”

Beep or Flash me

It means to call the other person’s phone with one ringer, beep, or flash, and they call you back using their airtime and paying for the phone call. You will often get one ringer phone call where someone will want you to call them again, and you pay the request.

Well done

It means “thank you for your work.” It is not used in the same context as in the U.K. or U.S. English, where when you have done something out of the

ordinary, you hear “Well done.”

Where is home? Where do you stay?

Where do you come from? Where do you live?

First Come – First Wait

When you ask someone in Uglish to first come – you give them an option to answer with “The first Wait.” Meaning, let me finish what I am doing, and I will come. If you have an urgent need, you ask, “first come – now, now,” adding the moment’s urgency.

Putting on

It does not mean putting on something like a pair of trousers or a dress, but that you are already wearing it.

I am shifting

This means that one is moving from one house to another.