Wetin…?

Daily writing prompt

What is one question you hate to be asked? Explain.

Hello! And if you haven’t experienced it yet, welcome to a quick intro to Nigerian Pidgin language! 🙂

The word “Wetin” is a Nigerian Pidgin word that means “what.” For example, “Wetin dey happen?” means “What is going on?”

Now, my mom—who also happens to be my housemate (Love you, Mama!)—is the absolute worst at minding her own business. Don’t get me wrong, she’s not a gossip… who am I fooling? Aren’t we all, to a certain degree? 😉 In these parts, people who have a knack for giving the best updates on other people’s business are called “Gist masters” or “Amebos.” But I digress!

In my 20s and even my 30s, it was cool when Mommy dearest wanted to know what I was up to or what I was wearing out. But these days? COME ON, MAMA!

I walk out of the kitchen, and if I so much as make a fist as I leave, she goes, “Wetin you dey carry for hand?” If I’m chewing, “Wetin you dey chop?” Even right now, as I’m typing this message, she could probably walk into my room and ask, “Wetin you dey do?” And in my head, I’m thinking, “Woman, I don’t owe you an explanation!” But, of course, as a good old-fashioned Nigerian daughter, I have to give an answer—even if it’s not always the full truth—just so we can MOVE ON.

Now, the word “Wetin” has even more cool variations, like “Wetin dey happen?” or “Wetin dey shele?” Or just plain and simple “Wetin dey?!” So never look down on that term, ’cause it’s cool! 🙂