Traditional· Wisdom
“Wanti wanti cyaan get it, an getti getti nuh want it.”People often take for granted what others long for.
Explore Jamaican sayings
20 sayings
Traditional· Traditional Proverbs
“Nuh trouble trouble till trouble trouble yuh.”Do not go looking for problems.
Traditional· Traditional Proverbs
“Cockroach nuh business inna fowl fight.”Stay out of conflicts that can hurt you and are not yours.
Traditional· Wisdom
“Di higher monkey climb, di more him expose.”The more prominent you become, the more your faults are seen.
Traditional· Wisdom
“Wah sweet nanny goat a go run him belly.”Pleasures enjoyed now may bring trouble later.
Traditional· Hard Work
“Likkle but mi tallawah.”Size does not determine strength or courage.
Traditional· Patience
“One one coco full basket.”Small, steady efforts add up to big results.
Traditional· Patience
“Every mickle mek a muckle.”Small amounts accumulate into something large.
Traditional· Family & Community
“Han wash han.”People help one another; cooperation benefits all.
Traditional· Traditional Proverbs
“Tek time yuh wi buck rock stone.”Rushing leads to mistakes; take care.
Traditional· Patience
“Time longer dan rope.”Be patient; eventually things come around.
Traditional· Wisdom
“Sorry fi mawga dog, mawga dog tun roun bite yuh.”Kindness is not always returned; be discerning.
Traditional· Traditional Proverbs
“Fire deh a muss-muss tail, him tink a cool breeze.”Someone is unaware of serious danger close to them.
Traditional· Traditional Proverbs
“Every day bucket go a well, one day di bottom drop out.”Risky habits eventually catch up with you.
Traditional· Wisdom
“When trouble tek yuh, pickney shut fit yuh.”Hard times force you to accept what you must.
Traditional· Friendship
“Walk good.”A common Jamaican farewell wishing someone safety on their way.
Traditional· Friendship
“Likkle more.”A casual goodbye meaning you will see each other again soon.
Modern expression· Jamaican Blessings
“Bless up.”A warm greeting or farewell wishing someone blessings and respect.
Traditional· Wisdom
“Tek kin teet kibba heart bun.”People often hide their pain behind a smile.
Traditional· Traditional Proverbs
“Chicken merry, hawk deh near.”When you are carefree and celebrating, danger may be close; stay alert.