kon por laga
[kohn-pohr-LAH-gah]
but at the speed of speech the R tends to disappear--yes, also from the spelling. You'll find it (and hear it) more often as
konpolaga
[kohn-poh-LAH-gah]
What does it mean?
Literally: how can (you? it?) let/leave (it? me? you?)
In context: OF COURSE! ABSOLUTELY!
 |
| "Your dogs really love the beach, don't they?" "Konpolaga!" |
"Hey, I need a favor. Would you [insert special request here]
"Konpolaga!"
(English: I'd be thrilled to)
"Are you sure this is the right street? It doesn't look familiar."
"Konpolaga! The house is just past the next curve, you'll see."
(English: Abso-f*ckin'-lutely sure)
And, because it's Monday, I say unto all you hopi great bloggers:
bon siman!
(Yes, it's a bonus question ;) Hint: I would only say this on a Monday. Not Tuesday, not Sunday, not any other day of the week.)
Your A to Z theme is really interesting. I studied anthropology and linguistics once upon a time, so I found this post to be fascinating! Cheers - Ellen
ReplyDeleteThat's so cool, Ellen! Anthropology and linguistics--wow. You'd love Curaçao, for its anthropologic and linguistic richness if nothing else (and there's plenty more to conquer our foreigner hearts ;) ). So glad to connect with you in the blogosphere; I loved your posts too :)
DeleteI am just now finding your blog in the #AtoZChallenge list, but I'm excited to go back and catch up. I bought a Papiamentu grammar book one time on a visit to Aruba, but never took the time to learn it. Phrases from a language can share so much about the culture. Awesome theme!
ReplyDeleteHow awesome to find a blogger who's actually *heard* Papiamentu spoken! I agree, Chuck; language is a culture's fingerprint. So glad you're enjoying the posts! (And thanks for all the comments on previous posts; loving them :) )
DeleteInteresting learning a new word.
ReplyDeleteGlad you found it so, Sheena. Thanks for the visit!
Delete"Good Week"-- Have a good week.
ReplyDelete"Bon siman" looks like 'buena semana', which means 'good week' in Spanish.--I studied a little Spanish many years ago.
Letters from the Land of Cherry Blossoms
I like how you're sharing language usage a lot. I'll certainly be back for more! Love your happy photograph too. Very interesting word.
ReplyDeleteHi Guilie - I concur with the others .. I'm enjoying the alphabet Papiamentu written and explained .. it's fun and I love the dog photo .. cheers Hilary
ReplyDelete