The Ultimate Sudanese Dialect Guide: Sudanese Colloquial Arabic & Slang Vocabulary

Want to learn more about the Sudanese dialect?

Here’s your guide to colloquial and slang Sudanese words to help you with your Sudanese vocabulary.

Note: The article will be updated frequently to include new vocabulary.

Aaay أأأي

Can also be said as aaaya; a colloquial word, meaning ‘yes’. It is used to express agreement in answer to a question, request or offer, or to give an affirmative answer or decision.

Abshir أبشر

Abshir (when commanding a male); abshiru (when commanding two or more people)

A gesture or salute to mark a celebration. It is traditionally performed by males during special occasions such as weddings. The gesture is performed by bringing the tips of the thumb and the middle finger together and then allowing the index finger to soak the middle finger, making a slapping sound.

Ab jega اب جيقة

Ab jega or bajaga

A colloquial Sudanese word that has two different meanings. Originally, it was used to refer to an overweight, short man with a pot belly, and characterise as kind and innocent. It can also be used to refer to a traditional Sudanese man who is alienated Western culture, not influenced by modernity and adheres to the local culture.

Adeel (A’deel) عديل

A colloquial word, which loosely translates to the English word, ‘straight’. It is used to indicate to someone to go in a straight line; or to be straight forward, and speak directly and honestly. It is also used in conversation as an adverb to say ‘completely, directly or simply’ as an emphasis.

Ahay أحي

An expression or exclamation, which is equivalent to the English exclamation ‘ouch’. It is used to express pain, whether physical, emotional, mental or psychological.

Aji أجي

A colloquial expression used to show surprise or shock when something unexpected or unusual has happened.

Al A’da العضة

A slang word meaning food – used in reference to food or to get something to eat. A’da originally means bite in Arabic. It is similar to English slang term or idiom, ‘grab a bite’, which is to seek or prepare food to eat, especially a snack or a small meal that can be consumed quickly. In the Sudanese dialect, a’da can refer to a small or big meal.

Alek (A’lek) Allah عليك الله

A colloquial expression used to plead or beg – to make an emotional appeal. It is also used in conversation to express interest, surprise or doubt, similar to English exclamation, ‘really?’.

Al Angarabe العنقريب

A handmade wooden bed with handwoven ropes. The bed frame is made of wood and the platform bed in which the sleeper (and mattress) is supported by a lattice of rope, rather than wooden slats.

Al Baraka Feekom البركة فيكم

A phrase or idiom used as an expression of sympathy, especially on the occasion of the death of a person’s relative or close friend. It loosely translates to ‘blessings upon you’, expressing good wishes during a difficult time.

Al Gargariba القرقريبة

A flat rectangular batter spreader made of wood, plastic or metal that is used to perfectly even or spread the batter of the kisra or hilo mur/abre on the saj or griddle. It also helps with easy cleaning of the batter.

Al Kashf الكشف

A fundraiser; a common practice in Sudanese culture where a person or people financially contribute to a loved one’s special occasion such as a wedding or funeral.

Al Layla Wal Layla الليلة والليلة

‘Al layla’ or ‘al layla wal layla‘
A colloquial excalamtion or expression of alarm, concern, distress or anxiety to a problem or when in trouble. It is similar to other popular Sudanese expressions such as ‘wob a’aly‘ and ‘ururuk‘ as well as to the English expression, ‘Oh, no!’.

Al Rakoba الراكوبة

Commonly found in many old and/or traditional homes, al ramona is a space or room with a thatched roof, which is a roof with dry vegetation such as straw, water reed, sedge, ruches, heather or palm branches.

Al Sabalouga السبلوقة

A rain pipe or spout known as a sputter, an outlet or opening in the outer walls or curbs along the roof line of a building that drains water.

Al Sabalouga, known as the sixth cataract (Sabalouga gorge), is also the name of a popular tourist attraction and natural reserve with a river and waterfall surrounded by the Garri mountains.

Al Sama Al Ahmar السماء الاحمر

A witty expression, commonly used by mothers to express their frustration with their children and families, in general. It indicates that the mother wishes to leave to a place that is unknown to or unreachable by others.

Al Turaba Fi Kashmak التوربه في خشمي

A colloquial expression used when someone is all talk and no action – who says he/she will do something, but does not do it. Usually carrying a negative connotation, it is considered a mild insult. It is also used when someone behaves poorly or badly. It is similar to the Sudanese expression, ‘sajm khashmak‘.

Arah أرح

A colloquial word, which is similar to the English expression, ‘let’s go’. It is used in speech to express a suggestion to leave or depart. It is also used in speech to tell someone to go to work faster, or to show excitement, express impatience or challenge someone.

Arkhi Al Hanak ارخي الحنك

Arkhi al hanak (when referring to a male or female); arkhu al hanak (when referring to two or more people)

A colloquial Sudanese phrase or idiom used to tell someone to ‘close the topic/subject’, ‘end of topic/discussion’ or ‘let it go’. Applied in various ways in conversations, ‘hanak’ loosely translates to ‘issue’ or ‘story’ when making a statement, asking question or reaching a conclusion.

Aslee اصلي

A Sudanese slang word commonly used in reference to males. It is used to describe a person as genuine, cool, popular, charming, and generally socially desirable. Originating from the Arabic language, aslee means original.

Baidh بيض

It is the Arabic word for eggs. In the Sudanese dialect, the word ‘baidh‘ is used to describe someone or something as boring or uninteresting.

Bara Al Shabaka / Tashi Al Shabaka بره الشبكة / طاشي الشبكة

A colloquial expression used to describe a person who is commonly absent-minded, clueless, disconnected, and/or unfocused especially during conversation. ‘Bara/Tashi Al Shabaka‘ literally means ‘outside/out-of-network’.

Baray براي

Barak/baraho (when referring to a male); baraki/baraha (when referring to a female); barana/barahom/barakom (when referring to two or more people)

A colloquial word, meaning ‘alone’ or ‘being on your own’. Use baray when talking about yourself.

Bareedak/Bareedik برِيدَك / برِيدِك

Bareedak (when referring to a male); bareedik (when referring to a female); bareedkom (when referring to two or more people) – rooting from the Sudanese word for love, redah ريده

A colloquial word used to express affection, admiration, attraction or attachment to/for another arising out of kinship or personal ties. It is often used as an affirmation of affection or deep caring to a partner, family member or other loved ones.

Bari بري

A colloquial word used to say ‘no’ or to disapprove. It is also used to say ‘I don’t know’.

Barid بارد

A colloquial word used informally in reference to cold soft, carbonated or fizzy drinks such as Coca-COla, Pepsi, 7 Up, Sprite, Mirinda and more. It is also used un reference to Sudanese soft drinks such as Champion, Pasgianos, Stim, Royal, Veno and more. It originates from the Arabic word ‘bard‘, which means cold.

Barrye/Barrya برّاي / برايه

Barrye (when referring to a male); barrya (when referring to a female); barryaeen (when referring to a group of two or more people)

A colloquial word used to describe someone as overly talkative or chatty. It commonly has a negative connotation when the talking or chatting is excessive and irritable.

Beeka بكاء

Literally meaning ‘crying’ in Arabic, beeka is a service held after a person’s death and burial. It takes place in the home of the deceased or of his loved ones for a minimum of three days. Men and women are separated into two different sections. Women stay indoors while the men usually sit outdoors in a tent or khayma.

Bely بلاي / بالله

A colloquial exclamation that is similar to the English word ‘really’ when used as an exclamation to express interest, surprise or doubt. It is also used to consider or think about something; to direct someone to do a particular activity; or in requests or questions.

Bobar بوبار

A colloquial word to describe the act of vaunting, boasting or showing off. It is to behave in a way that is intended to attract attention or admiration that other people often find annoying.

Butnu/Butnaha Ghareeqa بطنو/ بطنها غريقة

Butnu ghareeqa (when referring to a male); butnaha ghareeqa (when referring to a female)

A colloquial expression used to describe a person who is secretive; does not disclose information, and/or conceals feeling and intentions.

Dabbil lehu دبل ليهو

Dabbil lehu (when referring to a male); dabbil leha (when referring to a female); dabbil lehum (when referring to two or more people)

A colloquial idiom or expression, which was introduced by the de facto ruler of Sudan, General Abdel Fattah Al Burhan, to say that the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) will hit the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) twice as hard as they have them in the ongoing war in Sudan. ‘Dabil‘ originates from the English word ‘double’, which loosely translates to the expression, ‘strike back twice as hard’.

Dagas/Dagast دقس / دقست

Dagas (when referring to a male), dagasat (when referring to a female), dagasu (when referring to two or more people)

A slang expression used in conversation to indicate that someone is in a bad or problematic situation, state of hardship, or trouble.

Dagi jaras داقي جرس

Dagi jaras (when referring to a male), daga jaras (when referring to a female), dageen jaras (when referring to two or more people)

A slang expression to indicate that someone is feeling or showing strong annoyance, displeasure, or hostility; full of anger.

Dagsa دقسة

Dagas/dagasta (when referring to a male); dagasat/dagasti (when referring to a female); dagasu/dagastu (when referring to two or more people)

A slang word used to describe the act of making a mistake, error or slip-up; being wrong about something; or missing an opportunity.

Dak/Dakuk دك / دكوك

Daki (when referring to a male), daka (when referring to a female); daku (when referring to two or more people)

A slang word to describe the act or doing nothing; or ditching, abandoning or getting rid of something because you are no longer interested in or want it. It is usually used in reference to the act of ditching or cutting school.

Dandurma/Darduma داندرمة / دردومة

Sudanese popsicles commonly Mae from traditional Sudanese juices, such as karakade (hibiscus), abreh/hilu mur (sweet and sour juice), and gongolez (baobab), and as well as fruit juices, wrapped in disposable ice popsicle bags. It is commonly homemade and sold by street vendors around schools, universities and local markets. “Dondurma” originates from the Turkish language, and is Turkish ice cream.

Dara’a دراع

Dara’a (when referring to a male); dara’aa (when referring to a female); dara’aeen (when referring to two or more people)

A slang word use when a person who says something that is not appropriate or ‘out of context’. It is used when what was said has a meaning different from the meaning that was intended; not in the context necessary to show original meaning. Other variations of the word is dara’aha (when referring to a male), dara’ata (when referring to a female) and dara’oha (when referring to two or more people), used when a person exaggerates or overreacts; blows or takes things out of proportion, or goes over the top.

Dasees/Daseesa دسيسة / دسيس

Dasees (when referring to a male); daseesa (when referring to a female)

A slang word used to express approval or agreement to something. Popularised during the 2018 Sudanese revolution, it is used to describe something as good. Similar words are tamam, zabt/zabit and zait. It can also be used as compliment to praise or show admiration for someone, stating that he or she is a good person.

Eeek إيييك

A colloquial ejaculatory, exclamatory or utterance; and intersection or exclamation. It is used to express realisation, displeasure or concern when there is delay, and/or someone or something is slow, or is taking time or has took time to happen or be done. It is also used as an exclamation to express being overwhelmed by an event, information or any other occurrence.

Ezuma marakbia عزومة مركبية

A phrase or idiom used in reference to a last minute or an improper invitation. It is believed that this phrase or idiom originates from the time when fishermen/hunter men would invite people to eat with them, but only when they catch their meal in the presence of others. If no one is around, they would not extend an invitation for others to eat with them.

Farda فردة

Farda (friend), fardati (my friend), feerad (friends)

A slang word, meaning ‘friend’ or ‘buddy’. ‘Farda‘ means ‘one of a pair’, a set of two things used together or regarded as a unit.

Fayig wa rayig/Fayga wa rayga فايقة و رايقة / فايق و رايق

Fayig wa rayig (when referring to a male; yourself); fayga wa rayga (when referring to a female; yourself); faygeen wa raygeen (when referring to two or more people; yourselves)
A colloquial Sudanese idiom or phrase used to describe a relaxed, jobless man or woman with nothing to do; someone who is idle, unoccupied, or at leisure or liberty. ‘Fayig’ lossely translates to ‘having nothing to do’ and ‘rayig’ translates to feeling ‘relaxed’ or ‘calm’.

Gatea’a قطيعة

A colloquial word describing the act of talking about someone – in a kind or unkind manner – without their knowledge when he or she is not present.

Ghatata غتاتة

Ghatit (when referring to a male); ghatita (when referring to a female); ghatiteen (when referring to two or more people)

A colloquial word used to describe the act of concealing deceitful intentions and commonly behaving in a dishonest way. Similar to the English words ‘sly’ and/or ‘cunning’, it is used to describe a person who is commonly manipulative and untrustworthy.

Ghayto غايتو

A colloquial word applied in sentences as an exclamation or interjection to express a range of emotions including surprise, anger or relief. It is equivalent to the English word ‘well’ when used as an exclamation or interjection. It is used when continuing a conversation after a break, when you are stopping to consider your next words, to show that you accept that something cannot be changes, to agree to something unwilling or uncertainly, to say that something is uncertain, and/or used to mark the end of a conversation.

Hababkom A’ashara حبابكم عشرة

Can also be said as hababkom ashara bala kashara; an expression used to welcome or greet someone (arriving to a destination) in a polite, friendly way.

Habob حبوب

A colloquial word, which means ‘beloved’ or ‘loved one’. It can be used when referring to a person, place or even a country.

Haboba حبوبه

The Sudanese word for ‘grandmother’. It originates from the Arabic word for ‘love’, حب.

Haboob هبوب

A large and intense sandstorm and dust storm, transporting huge quantities of sand or dust, which move as a dense wall that can reach a height of 1,000 m. It may be accompanied by thunderstorms. It usually lasts about three hours, is most common during the summer. Haboob also occurs in other parts of the world regularly in dry land area regions such as Arizona and Texas in North America where the term haboob is commonly used as well. The term haboob is taken from the Arabic word habb, meaning ‘wind’. In addition to haboob, words such as kataha كتاحة or e’alala علالة, which also mean dusty weather or dust storm, are also used in Sudan.

Hanaaka/Hanaak حناك / حناكة

Hanaaka (female), hanaak (male)

A slang word used to describe a sweet or smooth talker, who is charming and confident, and can charm, flatter or persuade others in an assured, kind and pleasant manner.

Hankosh/Hankosha حنكوش / حنكوشة

Hankosh (male), hankosha (female)

A slang word used to describe someone as a young, inexperienced person who most commonly enjoys comfort and luxury. It could also be used to describe a person as spoiled.

Haqeeba اغاني حقيبة

Also known as Haqeebat Alfann or ‘Suitcase of Art’, Haqeeba is a widely respected and popular music genre in Sudanese culture. The Arabic word haqeeba can be translated to ‘suitcase’ or ‘mini era’. In Sudan, Haqeeba mainly refers to poetry, and the last poems written by Haqeeba poets were in the 1950s. It is believed that poets stored their poetry in a suitcases, thus the name, Haqeeba. Another belief is that it was called Haqeeba because it documents a certain era. Haqeeba started as essentially vocal music, sung by a lead singer and a chorus, with percussion coming from the tambourine-like tar frame drum. Today, Haqeeba still has a huge fane base, and is still performed whether in its original style or with an orchestra or musical band.

Harram حَرَّم

A colloquial word applied in conversation to insist on something, not accepting refusal. It is used to stand one’s ground to express persistence and determination on/about something. It originates from the Arabic word haram حرام, which means forbidden.

Harbi/Harbiya حربي / حربية

Harbi (male), harbiya (female)

A colloquial word used to admirably describe someone as a rebel or fighter as well as strong and brave. It originates from the Arabic word for war, harb حرب.

Hat حت

Hattato/hattaho (yourself; (when referring to a male); hattato/hattatu (yourself; when referring to a female); hattanau/hattohu (yourselves; when referring to two or more people)

A colloquial word used when a person or a group of people dance enthusiastically or energetically at an occasion.

Hinay/Hinaya هناي / هنايه

Hinay (when referring to a male/masculine object); hinaya (when referring to a female/feminine object)

A colloquial word used in reference to remember or know their/its name. It is similar to English word ‘thing’, which is used in reference to something that an individual cannot, need not, or does not want to refer to precisely.

Hoy هوي

A colloquial exclamation, which is similar to the English exclamation, ‘hey’, or the informal British exclamation, ‘oi’, used to attract attention, or express dismay, questioning, bewilderment or annoyance.

Istikana استكانة

Mustakeen, istakeen (male, when commanding a male); mustakeena, istakeeni (female, when commanding a female); mustakaneen, istakeenu (when referring/commanding two or more people)

A colloquial word used to express relaxation and/or comfort – free from tension. It is usually used when one is drinking tea or coffee. Originally, istikana or granyoni stakan is the faceted glass cup used to drink tea.

Jaghmasa جغمسة

A colloquial word used when one is in a state of being confused or is unclear in one’s mind about something. It is used to describe something or a situation that is messy or untidy, confused and full of problems. Similar to the word ‘jota‘, it is commonly used to refer to a mess children have made.

Jahjaha جهجهة

A colloquial word used to describe a situation when there is uncertainty about what is happening, intended, or required. It describes the state of being confused or unclear about something.

Jallaby جلابي

A colloquial Sudanese word, meaning a rich, wealthy man, who has a great deal of money, resources or assets. Originally, it was used to refer to highly-esteemed, influential men, commonly traders, in the West. It originates from the word ‘jalabiya‘ (جلابية), the traditional white attire worn by Sudanese men, and the deep pockets it has. In other words, a jallaby is a man with deep pockets – in his jalabiya.

Jana جنى

Janaho (when referring to a male); janaha (when referring to a female); janahom (when referring to two or more people); janay (when referring to your own child/offspring whether male or female)

A colloquial word is a singular genderless word for child or offspring; the son or daughter – of any age – of a person.

Jayt/jayta جايط / جايطة

Jayt (when referring to a male); jayta (when referring to a female); jayteen (when referring to two or more people)

A colloquial word used when one is in a state of being confused or is unclear in one’s mind about something. It originates from the Sudanese word “jota”, which describes a situation that is messy or untidy, confused and full of problems.

Jota جوطة

A colloquial word word used to describe a situation that is messy or untidy, confused and full of problems.

Jughma جغمة

A colloquial word, meaning to have a sip of water or any other drink.

Ka’ab كعب

A colloquial word, which means ‘bad’ or ‘not good’. It is used to describe someone or something as unpleasant, unfavourable, or of poor quality or low standard.

Kadi كَدي

Similar to the Arabic word, ‘kida’; it is a colloquial word, which is similar to the English phrases ‘like so/this/that’, ‘in this manner’, or ‘similar to’. It is used when you are drawing attention to something that you are doing or that someone else is doing to show someone how to do something.

Kadeh كدى

A colloquial word, which is similar to English phrase ‘let’s see’, used when you want to think carefully about something or are trying to remember something. It is also used to suggest to find an answer, ask someone to show you something, or to say move.

Kandaka كنداكة

The title for queens and mothers of queens in the ancient Kingdom of Kush. Today, it is used to describe a strong, inspiring or empowering woman.

Karkaba كركبة

Mukarkib (when referring to a male/masculine object); mukarkiba (when referring to a female/feminine object); mukarkabeen (when referring to two or more people)

A word used to describe a state of confusion, chaos, messiness, untidiness or disorder. It is can be used to refer to something or someone that produces or causes untidiness; or is marked by confusion, disorder, or lacking neatness or precision.

Kasir Talij كسر تلج

A slang expression, which literally means ‘breaking the ice’. It is used to describe an act when someone attempts to sweet talk or flatter another person to get what they want or make a difficult situation comfortable.

Katamat كتمت

A word or expression used to describe an extremely important or critical moment or period of time when a pivotal decision or action is needed – at a point at which something difficult must be done. It is a critical period of time characterised by a heightened pressure to succeed, usually at or near the end of a given situation or undertaking.

Kaway/Kawaya كاواي / كاوايه

Kaway (male), kawaya (female)

A colloquial word that is used to describe a tease, someone who intends to provoke or make fun of someone in a playful way.

Kham Al Ramad خم الرماد

An expression for an old traditional practice in Sudan where on the last day of the month of Sha’ban and a day before the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan, people gather in a festive celebration to welcome Ramadan with entertainment and recreation. Historically, elderly women used to gather to make the traditional and popular Sudanese drink, abri or hilo mur, for Ramadan. On the day before the first day of Ramadan, the women would gather again to finally clean the ashes of the burnt firewood used to make the abri. This is called kham (throw) al ramad (ashes).

Kharim Barim خارم بارم

A phrase or idiom used in context to language, conduct or an idea that is absurd, ridiculous, contrary to good sense, or lacks sense or meaning. It is similar to the meaning of the English word, ‘nonsense’.

Kuayis/kuayisa كويس / كويسة

Kuayis (when referring to a male); kuayisa (when referring to a female); kuayseen (when referring to two or more people)

A colloquial word used in speech in two different ways: to express that one is in good health, free or recovered from illness, and/or when something is in good or satisfactory condition; an to express approval or agreement in an answer to a question, request or offer, or to give an affirmative answer or decision. It originates from the Arabic language, meaning ‘good’, ‘well’ or ‘nice’.

Kuj كٌج

A colloquial word used to describe someone or something as bad luck; or usually at odds or an unfortunate state.

Kur A’alay كر علي

A colloquial expression used to show sympathy or pity to someone. Kur originates from the Kingdom of Kush and is believed to be a Kushite god.

Ma Hanak ما حنك

A popular Sudanese slang expression that is similar to the English idiom, ‘no big deal’, which is used to say something is unimportant or trivial – not troublesome, a big or serious problem, or anything to worry about. Applied in various ways in conversations, ‘hanak’ loosely translates to ‘issue’ or ‘story’ when making a statement, asking question or reaching a conclusion.

Makasr/makasra مَكسر / مَكسرة

Makasr (when referring to a male); makasra (when referring to a female); makasreen (when referring to two or more people)

A slang word used when one has a crush on another. It describes a brief, but intense infatuation and/or attraction for someone. Makasr originates from the Arabic language and means broken.

Marad مرض

A colloquial word, which means sickness. It is used to describe someone or something who/that is disliked or frustrating.

Masoora مسورة

A slang word, which is used to describe someone who is unreliable, dicey or flaky especially when making plans with them. Masoora also means water tap.

Mataka متاكا

A colloquial word that is used to describe something that is slightly open or not completely closed. It is equivalent to the English word ‘ajar’. Mataka is commonly used in referrence to a slightly open door.

Min Zaman Hafaru Al Bahar من زمن حفرو البحر

A Sudanese phrase or idiom used in reference to a point in time which was a long time in the past, far in the past or not at all recently. It is similar to the English idioms, ‘a long time ago’ and ‘that’s ancient history’.

Mrakib/mrakiba makana مركب / مركبة مكنة

Mrakib makana (when refrring to a male); mrakiba makana (when referring to a female); mrakibeen makana (when referring to two people or more)

A slang expression used to describe the act of giving a false appearance or behaving in an imitative manner. It is also used to describe someone as arrogant and aloof.

Mshatit / Mshtatita مشتت / مشتتة

Mshatit (yourself, male); mshatita (yourself, female); shatit (when commanding a male); shatiti (when commanding a female); shatitu (when commanding two or more people)

A slang word meaning ‘to leave or get out from a place’ for a short time or permanently.

Mubalagha موبالغة

A colloquial word used to express that an object, situation, quality or action is an exaggeration. It is used in conversation to indicate or state that something is unbelievable, or either exceptionally good or bad.

Muratib/Muratiba مرطب / مرطبة

Muratib (when referring to a male); muratiba (when referring to a female); muratibeen (when referring to two or more people)

A word used to describe a person or people as rich, wealthy or comfortable. When used as a noun, tarteeba is the state of having wealth and comfort. It originates from the Arabic word ‘muratib‘, which is to be moisturised using body lotion, which is a practice that is seen to signify wealth and comfort.

Mutjaris/Mutjarisa متجرس / متجرسة

Mutjaris (when referring to a male); mutjarisa (when referring to a female); mutjariseen (when referring to two or more people)

A colloquial word, describing when one appears or acts pries, nervous, anxious or even afraid of something or someone.

Nuqta Wa Satr Jadeed نقطة و سطر جديد

A Sudanese phrase or idiom used to end a conversation or topic of discussion; and/or when you think that the opinion you have expressed about something is correct and/or final, and that there is nothing more to say about it. It literally translates to ‘period/full stop, and start a new sentence’. It is similar to the English idioms, ‘end of story’,’and that’s that’, and ‘turn a new page’.

Rawig al manga روق المنقة

Rawig al manga (when referring to a male); rawigi al manga (when referring to a female); rawigu al manga (when referring to two or more people)

An idiom and/or verb phrase used to tell someone to stop feeling or feel less upset or angry, or even excited or enthusiastic. Similar to the English verb phrase ‘calm down’, it is used to tell someone to calm or cool down, or be quiet.

Rendok رندوك

An Arabic-based secret language developed by the urban youth of Sudan. The popular street language is a form of language-crossing from Standard Colloquial Sudanese Arabic (SCSA).

Saay ساي

A colloquial word or expression, which is similar to the English adverb, ‘simply’, or the idiom, ‘just like that’. It is used to emphasise that something happens or is done in a simple way, often without much thought or discussion.

Sabiha / Sabaha صابيها / صاباها

Sabiha (when referring to a male), sabaha (when referring to a female), sabinaha (when referring to a group of people)

A slang word used to indicate doing something in excess – more than is necessary or normal. It is commonly used in conversation when one stays in a place too long, especially to accomplish something.

Sajami سجمي

A Sudanese expression or exclamation variously expressing disbelief, frustration, anger or even excitement. It is equivalent to the English expression, ‘Oh my god’.

Sajm سجم

A colloquial word, which is used to describe someone or something as troubling, hopeless or invaluable. There is a popular Sudanese saying, al sajm wa al ramad, which is used to describe an unfavourable situation or person. The saying is believed to have originated from when women used to put ashes (ramad) on their faces to mourn their husbands’ death (the grief, sajm).

Sajm Khashmy سجم خشمي

A colloquial expression used to express shock, surprise, alarm or concern about a problem, news, gossip or an event. It is similar to the popular Sudanese expression, ‘wob a’alay‘, and the English expression, ‘Oh,no’.

Sajman wa ramdan سجمان ورمدان

Sajman wa ramdan سجمان ورمدان (male); sajmana wa ramdana سجمانة ورمدانة (female)

A colloquial expression used to describe a person as useless or incompetent, producing nothing of value.

Sanfara صنفرة

Basanfirak (when referring to a male); basanfirik (when referring to a female); basanfirkom (yourselves; when referring to two or more people)

A colloquial Sudanese word meaning to hit or fight. It orginiates from the Arabic language, meaning to smoothen or polish something by cleaning, scrubing or sanding it. The variation of the word sanfara in the Sudanese dialect is used to refer to a clean hit that strikes a strong, damaging or incapacitating blow. It is similar to the English idiom, ‘knock someone out’.

Shadeed شديد

A colloquial word used similarly to the English adverb, ‘very’. It is used to emphasise the extreme or high degree or point of someone or something. Shadeed (masculine) or shadeeda (feminine) can also be used as an individual word to describe something or someone as very good or nice.

Shakhat lay شخت لي

Shakhat lay (when referring to a male); shakhat leha (when referring to a female); shakhatu lay (when referring to two or more people)

A colloquial phrase, describing the act of being ditched, blown off, ignored or dismissed by someone. When one is performing the act of getting rid of someone who is no longer wanted, the phrases are shakhatat leha (when referring to a male); shakhatat lehu (when referring to a female); shakhatna lehom (when referring to two or more people)

Shakush شاكوش

A slang word used to explain the action when one’s idea, request or proposal is rejected/refused. It is commonly used when one’s romantic approach has been rejected. It originates from the Arab language and means ‘hammer’.

Shaleeg/shaleega شليق / شليقة

Shaleeg (when referring to a male); shaleega (when referring to a female); shaleegeen (when referring to two or more people)

A colloquial word used to describe a curious and mischievous person. Commonly used when referring to children, it could be used to say ‘rascal’ and/or ‘troublemaker’. It is also used to describe a person who pries, shows too much curiosity, or inquiries too closely about other people’s affairs.

Shamar شمار

A colloquial word meaning ‘gossip’ or chatty talk that is casual or unconstrained conversation about other people, usually discussing rumors, involving personal details that are not confirmed as being true. Shamar is also the Arabic name for fennel seeds, which is also known as shamr شمر / shomar شومر in the MENA region. Shamar is one of the most commonly used ingredients in the Sudanese cuisine.

Shamasa شماسة

Shamasi (when referring to a male); shamasiya (when referring to a female); shamasa (when referring to two or more people)

A colloquial word used when referring to a lawless person who lives on the streets. Similar to the English word thug, it describes a lowlife, a person who is disreputable, and could be aggressive and criminal. It originates from the Arab word for sun ‘shams‘ as the shamasa live on the streets under the sun.

Shamshara شمشرة

A colloquial word used to describe the act of being nosy, inquisitive or unduly curious about the affairs of others. A person who is nosy or participating in shamshara is referred to as shamshar (male), shamshaara (female) or shamshareen (group of people).

Shanaf/shanafah شناف / شنافة

Shanaf (when referring to a male); shanafa (when referring to a female); shanafeen (when referring to two or more people)

A colloquial word used to describe a person who has a pessimistic attitude that tends to see the worst aspect of people and things, or believe that the worst will happen. Having a negative connotation, it describes a person as pessimistic, cynical and/or even unkind, tending to be downbeat, disagreeable and skeptical.

Shanina Um Grinat شنينة أم قرينات

A colloquial idiom or expression used as a sarcastic response or comment when one asks “shino?” or “what?”, reflecting a lack of interest o sarcasm to a question, and lightens the seriousness in a conversation or to add humour. “Shanina Um Grinat” loosely translates to “ugly with horns”, which is believe to refer to the Saharan horned viper, known as Cerastes Cerastes.

Shayn/Shayna شين / شينه

Shayn (when referring to a male/masculine object); shayna (when referring to a female/feminine object)

A colloquial word that means ‘ugly’; used to describe something or someone as unattractive, unpleasant, or repulsive in appearance, taste or experience.

Shifit/Shafata شفت / شفاتة

Shifit (singular), shafata (plural); a slang word to describe a strong, tough, cool or sleek young man.

Tabra/Tabri تبرى / تبري

Tabra (when referring to a male); tabri (when referring to a female)

A colloquial word meaning ‘to heal or see no harm’. It is used to show pity or sympathy to someone’s misfortune, wishing them well and a speedy recovery.

Takla تكلة

Mutakil/takil (when referring to a male); mutakila/takili (when referring to a female); mutakilin/takilu (when referring to two or more people)

A colloquial word describing a state when one is at ease, spending time idly, relaxing and/or socialising. It could be used to describe a moment of relaxation, when something is easy, or even when something or a place is nearby.

Taltala تلتلة

Taltaltak (when referring to a male); taltaltik (when referring to a female); taltalnakom (when referring to two or more people).

A colloquial word used to express when an action, experience and/or period of time makes a person feel tired, exhausted or troubled.

Tallas طلس

A slang word meaning a lie, fabrication or falsehood; a false, untrue or deceiving impression or statement.

Tamam تمام

A colloquial word that expresses approval. Sudanese used ‘tamam’ to say they are well, good, or to agree to a plan. Tamam means ‘good’, ‘well’, and ‘okay’.

Tashi/Tasha طاشي / طاشة

Tashi (male), tasha (female); tasheen (two or more people)

A slang word used to describe a person who is confused, distorted and/or not in a proper state of mind due to their mood, illness, drugs or other elements, affecting their thinking and behaviour.

Tawali طوالي

A colloquial word used to confirm or express agreement. It is also used when showing direction to indicate to go straight or forward. It originates from the Arabic language, meaning moving straight or forward especially in direction.

Ururuk/Wururuk اروروك / وروروك

A colloquial ejaculatory or exclamatory utterance; an interjection or exclamation. It is used to express emotions such as distress, alarm, fear, pain and grief. It is commonly heard at funerals, uttered loudly as a cry.

Wada’anak Le Allah Wa Rasuluh ودعناك لي الله ورسولة

Wada’anak (when referring to a male); wada’anaki (when referring to a female); wada’anakom (when referring to two or more people)

A Sudanese phrase or idiom used to express good wishes when parting, or leaving a person or people. The farewell wish loosely translates to ‘I/we leave you with Allah and his Prophet’.

Whay واي

A colloquial expression used to convey either unhappiness or joy. When unhappy, it is used to express pain, fear, irritation or anguish. It is also used to express extreme joy, especially in admiration of something or someone.

Wob A’alay ووب علي

A colloquial phrase used as an expression of alarm, concern or resentment about a problem or error. It is equivalent to the English expression, ‘Oh, no’. Wob originates from the Kingdom of Kush and is believed to be a Kushite god.

Yahu ياهو

A colloquial word used when you are pointing towards something or someone that is near you, in order to draw someone else’s attention to it, or to direct someone to something or someone. It is similar to saying, ‘Yes, that’s it!’ (yahu zatu) or ‘it’s here/there’ (yahu da/dak). It can also be used in conversation to express agreement, or give an affirmative answer.

Yajaglib/Tajaglib يجقلب / تجقلب

Yajaglib (when referring to a male); tajaglib (when referring to a female); yajaglibu (when referring to two or more people)

A colloquial word used to describe when a person is extremely nervous, anxious, jittery or jumpy after getting in trouble.

Zabt/zabit زبط / زابط

A slang word that is similar to ‘tamam’, used to say good, great or perfect. It is applied in conversations to express approval, to agree to something, or to confirm something is good.

Zait زيت

A slang word that is similar to tamam and zbt. It is used to express approval or to agree to something. It is applied in conversations to say something is exceptionally good.

Zol/zola زول / زوله

Zol (male), zola (female)

The Sudanese word for ‘person’. In the Arabic language, zol is believed to have many meanings, including ‘brave’, ‘nice’, and ‘kind’.

This article will constantly be updated with new vocabulary as we continue with our #SudaneseWords initiative. Bookmark this page!

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