Slang

1. Toh

   OK / well then

   Usage

   The most-used filler in conversation, also for changing topic — safe with anyone

2. Yauwa

   Yes / that is right

   Usage

   A call of agreement and encouragement — safe with anyone

3. Madalla

   Great / well done

   Usage

   Delight that something worked out — fine with someone senior

4. Kai!

   Hey! / wow!

   Usage

   An exclamation of surprise — for friends, and keep your voice down or it sounds like a rebuke

5. Ashe!

   So that is how it is!

   Usage

   For the moment you realise you had it wrong — safe with anyone

6. Haba!

   Come on! / no way!

   Usage

   A mild protest, also used when haggling — say it lightly, because a straight face makes it sharp

7. Wayyo!

   Oh no!

   Usage

   A cry of dismay — close to talking to yourself, so safe anywhere

8. Ba komai

   It is nothing / no problem

   Usage

   A reply to thanks or an apology — universally safe

9. Shikenan

   That is it / that is all

   Usage

   For wrapping up a story or a deal — safe with anyone

10. Gaskiya

    Honestly / truly

    Usage

    An intensifier — safe with anyone, though overuse makes you sound glib

11. Ƙwarai

    Very much / indeed

    Usage

    An intensifier, often added to praise — safe with anyone

12. Yaya dai?

    How is it going?

    Usage

    A casual greeting between friends — with a stranger or an elder use "sannu" or "kana lafiya?"

13. Sai an jima

    See you later

    Usage

    The standard parting line — safe with anyone

14. Ranka ya daɗe

    Long may you live (respectful address)

    Usage

    Literally "may your life be long" — the respectful way to address an elder, chief or official, never a friend

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