Izit?

Izit (pronounced iz-it). (a) This SouthAfricanism is used when you have nothing to contribute to the conversation.  It's basically a word which can be used at any random moment to start a conversation or carry it on.  Derived from the two words “is” and “it”.

It can be an expression of surprise, used even when the preceding statement did not include the verb “to be”. 

Izit also shows all sorts of emotions:

1. The sarcastic izit - "Really, is that so?" 
2. The questionable izit - "You're having me on."
3. The suspicious izit?  "I don't believe that for a second.".  


For instance:  If someone says “The Russians will succeed in their bid for capitalism once they adopt a work ethic and respect for private ownership,” it is rather appropriate to respond by saying “Izit?”.

 

Hey Howzit Goin'?

Enjoying the A to Z Blog Challenge, everyone?  

I certainly am.  I've visited over 60 blogs already and found a good few new blogs to follow. 

Some bloggers are rockin' some pretty fekkin' awesome themes.  Go check some of them out - even if you don't want to link up - you'll be sure to find some new brilliant bloggers to read and follow.

We're tackling the Letter H and today's Southafricaism is :

Howzit (pronounced hau-zet).  A South African slang word for an exclamation or greeting.  It's the equivalent to "hello" or "how are you".  All the locals use this one, usually coupled with the gesture in the picture below.  

Usage :  "Howzit, Boet - surprised to see me?"

Times : 9am tot Gatvol

Gatvol (the g is pronounced like you are gargling ghhhh-aht-fall) in the same way as the "ch" in the Scottish "loch" or the German "achtung".  A growl at the back of the throat.  

Translated literally, this word means ”the hole is full.” Used as a term of absolute frustration.  One is gatvol when one has had enough. The emphasis on the ”g” makes this word particularly effective. You know that when someone is gatvol, well, that's the end of your bullshit...  

This South African word is such fun to say and its perfect when you're completely fed up and are ready to blow a gasket. A great word to say when you can't say "Fuck It!".

Usage : I have had it up to here! I am gatvol. If you don't tidy your room, you are grounded.

Fokkol

Haaibo Daar Mense!  

It be Day #6 for the A to Z Blog Challenge happening this month.

Today is the letter F. 

Today's word is Fokkol (pronounced fok-ole).  This is an Afrikaans word essentially meaning having nothing, being nothing, nothing left etc. Just general nothing. 

It rolls so beautifully off the tongue, doesn't it?  The direct translation means "Fuck All".

Usage :  

"Hey Bru, what you doing?"
"FOKKOL"

"I understand FOKKOL"

"Gimme me a blowjob first"
"No, theres FOKKOL time." 

Here is one of our Afrikaans musos singing Die Fokkol Song

 

Laugh Yer Arse Off!