Papiamentu is a mixture of Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, English, and French, and it also has some Arawak Indian and African influences. It is one of the few Creole Languages of the Caribbean that has survived to the present day.
Papiamentu is predominately a spoken language among the local people of Curaçao, Bonaire, and Aruba.
From island to island, small variations in Papiamentu mainly in spelling and vocabulary can be observed.
Some efforts have been made to standardize Papiamentu and its orthography, however, Aruba decided on a spelling that is closer to Spanish, whereas the other islands tried to stay closer to the roots in that respect.
So let us introduce you to the most popular “Papiamentu” word, “DUSHI!”
“Dushi” is a beloved and frequently-used word in Curaçao. Dushi means sweet, nice, or good.
You can use “dushi” to praise a food, lovely person, or pleasing place. The word is like a hug.
Like “Sweetheart” : I love you “dushi”!
Or “Delicious” : This food tase “dushi”!
And as “Good” : Life is “dushi”!
We want you to be able to say at least a few words & sentences in Papiamentu when visiting, so you can enjoy the dushi swing of our native language. So go ahead and rehearse the following sentences:
Good Morning: Bon dia
Goodbye: Ayó
Good afternoon: Bon tardi
Good evening: Bon nochi
Please: Por fabor
Thank you: Danki
Thank you very much: Masha Danki
How are you?: Kon ta bai
Very Good!: Hopi bon
I am fine: Mi ta bon
See you later: Te awero
