Twi Lessons

Learn Twi: A Beginner’s Guide for the Diaspora

Reconnect with your roots through the beauty of the Twi language, spoken by millions across Ghana and the diaspora. Whether you’re visiting family, traveling, or simply learning for cultural pride, this guide will help you start speaking with confidence.

🌍 Introduction to Twi

  • Twi is a dialect of the Akan language, widely spoken in Ghana.

  • It’s known for its warm greetings, expressive tone, and cultural importance.

  • Learning Twi helps you connect more deeply with Ghanaian traditions, family, and community.

👋 Common Greetings in Twi

  • Ɛte sɛn? → How are you?

  • Me ho yɛ → I’m fine

  • Maakye → Good morning

  • Maaha → Good afternoon

  • Maadwo → Good evening

  • Yɛbɛhyia bio → See you again

(Tip: Greetings are very important in Ghanaian culture — always greet before asking anything.)

🗣️ Basic Everyday Phrases

  • Medaase → Thank you

  • Yoo → Okay / Alright

  • Ɛyɛ → It’s good / It’s fine

  • Kosɛ → Sorry

  • Bra ha → Come here

  • Ɛnneɛ? → Really?

🍴 Food & Market Phrases

  • Ɛyɛ sene sɛn? → How much is it?

  • Me pɛ... → I want...

  • Me didi → I’m eating

  • Me ho hia me... → I need...

  • Nsuo → Water

  • Etoɔ → Mashed yam & plantain dish

👪 Family & Relationships

  • Agya → Father

  • Ɛna → Mother

  • Nuabarima → Brother

  • Nuabea → Sister

  • Me nua → My sibling

  • Me do wo → I love you

🔑 Numbers in Twi

1 – Baako
2 – Mmienu
3 – Mmiɛnsa
4 – Mnanan
5 – Num
10 – Du
20 – Aduonu
100 – Ɔha

🎵 Cultural Notes

  • Twi is tonal — meaning the pitch you use can change the meaning.

  • Proverbs are a big part of Twi culture (e.g., “Anoma antu a, ɔbɛda” → “If the bird doesn’t fly, it will sleep”).

  • Even learning a few words can create instant connection with elders and Ghanaians at home or abroad.

📚 Next Steps

  • Practice greetings daily.

  • Label household items with Twi words.

  • Listen to Ghanaian music and repeat lyrics.

  • Try short conversations with family/friends.

Each month, we’ll share a new lesson here — greetings, proverbs, and expressions that tie us all back to our roots.