Oxford English Dictionary adds South African, Nigerian, Ghanaian words

The update also includes words tied to music genres such as highlife and familiar South African expressions like yoh and sharp-sharp.

Language that moves with culture

A Nigerian language expert involved in suggesting entries told interviewers that English is constantly shifting and must accommodate how Africans speak.

“English is changing, and how Africans speak needs to be accommodated,” he said.

He added that the global dictionary must reflect lived realities. “If you sit in Malaysia or anywhere in the world, you must be able to look up this word and say, ‘Yoh, that’s interesting.’”

The move underscores English’s adaptability, with commentators noting that its dynamism is part of why it remains widely embraced.

Survival through evolution

The discussion also touched on Afrikaans, with speakers reflecting on its ability to evolve and absorb influences over time.

“My favourite language is Afrikaans because it’s my own language,” said Clarence Ford, adding that it too has shown the versatility needed to survive.

As African expressions find their way into one of the world’s most authoritative dictionaries, the message is clear: languages that adapt endure.

For more detailed information, listen to Orderson using the audio player below: