Kenyan Phrases Enrich the Oxford English Dictionary

The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) has announced the addition of several East African phrases in its September 2024 update. Among the noteworthy inclusions are “panya route” and “kitu kidogo,” which highlight the cultural richness and linguistic diversity of Kenya and its neighboring regions.

The term “panya route” originates from the Swahili word for “rat,” and is defined in the OED as a noun meaning “a secret path or roundabout route; especially one used for smuggling.” This phrase resonates deeply within Kenyan society, where informal routes are often utilized for various purposes, ranging from daily commutes to covert activities. The incorporation of “panya route” into the OED not only acknowledges its relevance in contemporary vernacular but also underscores the cultural practices surrounding movement and transportation in urban and rural settings alike.

On the other hand, “kitu kidogo,” which translates directly from Swahili as “something small,” has been designated as a noun to mean “money offered or accepted as an inducement or bribe.” This phrase encapsulates a significant aspect of Kenyan societal dynamics, particularly regarding informal transactions and the complexities of everyday life. By adding “kitu kidogo” to the dictionary, the OED recognizes the language’s ability to convey nuanced meanings that reflect local customs and social realities.

The September update of the OED includes over 600 new words and phrases, showcasing a broad spectrum of linguistic influences. Among the other notable additions are “African massage,” describing the jarring experience of traveling on uneven roads, and “Bantu knot,” which refers to a specific hairstyle popular in various African cultures. These terms enrich the English language by providing specific cultural contexts that were previously unrepresented in the lexicon.

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Additionally, phrases like “cheap ass” and “cheap-shit” introduce colloquial expressions that reflect modern attitudes towards frugality and quality. Meanwhile, the term “Dholuo” acknowledges the linguistic heritage of the Luo people of Kenya and Tanzania, further emphasizing the importance of cultural representation in language.

Catherine Sangster, the head of pronunciations at OED, stated, “This was a particularly busy update, which included words from Caribbean, Bermudian, East African, New Zealand, and Welsh English.” This acknowledgment of global linguistic diversity highlights the dictionary’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity and accuracy in documenting the English language.

The inclusion of these Kenyan phrases is not an isolated event; it builds on the OED’s previous updates that have already integrated several common Kenyan words. Terms like “mpango wa kando,” “chapo,” “uhuru,” “nyama choma,” “githeri,” “chang’aa,” “busaa,” “come-we-stay,” “jembe,” “buibui,” “sambaza,” “sheng,” and “collabo” were added in 2022. These additions reflect a growing recognition of the significance of Kenyan English and its role in global discourse.

The ongoing evolution of the English language, as evidenced by the OED’s latest updates, emphasizes the need to recognize and celebrate linguistic diversity. By including terms from East African languages, the OED not only enriches the English language but also affirms the cultural identities of the communities that contribute to its development.

In conclusion, the addition of phrases like “panya route” and “kitu kidogo” to the Oxford English Dictionary represents a significant step towards acknowledging the richness of Kenyan culture and language. As global communication continues to evolve, the integration of local vernacular into mainstream language serves as a powerful reminder of the intricate tapestry that makes up our linguistic heritage.

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