The Congo is a rich country, known for its abundant natural beauty, its fast-flowing river, its energetic people and its plentiful hydrocarbons; yet the country is also characterised by a culture that is a skilful blend of French, Lingala, Kikongo and Tshiluba. The country, often nicknamed ‘the land of Brazza la Verte’ or ‘the land of SAPE’ for nature lovers and fashion enthusiasts, is rich in expression and abundant in the use of figures of speech in everyday conversation.
Strolling through the streets of “Mfoa” or “Mfua” – another nickname for Brazzaville – one is surprised to discover new ways of using language on every street corner. People speak quickly and vividly, with expressions that go off in all directions, literally in every direction.
Congolese civilisation has existed for nearly 600,000 years, with indigenous peoples settling on the shores of Lake Congo. Languages have come and gone (Swahili, Arabic, Portuguese, French, Lingala, etc.), but the imagination seems to have taken on the features of time; at any rate, this is what the vivid imagery used by the region’s inhabitants today reveals.
Short, snappy expressions that are spoken without any formality. In this article, we’ll take a look at the most common expressions in Congo-Brazzaville – let’s get started.

To eat someone:

A very sports-oriented expression, “to eat someone” literally means to defeat one’s opponents. The expression is widely used in mixed-gender settings in the Congo, mainly in Brazzaville. You might hear it from time to time during board games or in friendly banter between friends.

Do the black:

An expression often heard from women, this phrase is frequently used to convey several ideas. It means both not rushing into things, using objects only once and then putting them away with the used items, or even turning off the light.

Hit with shapes:

Congo-Brazzaville is the birthplace of SAPE, an artistic movement that has spread worldwide. The Société des Ambianceurs et des Personnes Élégantes was founded in 1920; the SAPE movement, known as SAPOLOGIE, first gained popularity in the Congo, then quickly spread across the globe. It is within this milieu of aesthetics, style and authenticity that the expression “frapper les formes” has its roots. When we hear the expression “frapper les formes”, we mean that the person in front of us is very well dressed, and that the fit of their clothes is well suited to their body shape.
“Sapologie” in the Congos is more than just a movement of thought; it is an integral part of the culture of both countries. Young children (around 6 to 8 years old) are included in the movement, as are teenagers still in education, and working adults: everyone has their place within the movement.

What on earth is that all about? :

This expression is used to criticise a farce or an exaggerated attitude. Used solely in an ironic tone, we often hear this expression during discussions among friends or informal conversations between colleagues.

Article 15:

Article 15 refers to the ‘Congolese resourcefulness’ clause. The phrase ‘See Article 15’ originated in political speeches that proposed makeshift solutions by referring to an imaginary section of the law. The expression quickly found its way onto TV and radio programmes to signify the informal rule of resourcefulness. Why 15? Well, 3 times 5 makes 15; the number is certainly a good compromise to express the confusion of politicians who resort to the technique of the imaginary law.

Have the bowls:

Used in a positive sense, ‘avoir des boules’ literally means to be creative, to have imagination. So, we advise you to embrace the round shape and to love balls.

Provide a lawyer:

In Africa, we have a unique relationship with money: we are both generous and stingy, spending it according to our needs, desires and impulses. Money plays a central role in daily life; whilst it is primarily used to purchase goods, it also serves as a means of facilitating various informal transactions. Money is the focus of attention in many administrative procedures. It serves numerous purposes in social life, and it is to this that the expression ‘to give an avocat’ refers. This expression means giving money in exchange for a service. Almost a figure of speech that replaces money with one of its functions, this expression is very popular in the cities of the Congo and is heard in both the north and south of the country.

Grab my money:

Certainly one of the most vivid expressions in the Congo, this one speaks for itself. Nothing too complicated; it simply means making a living. It can refer to a full-time job, a part-time job, or even a temporary role. The expression is colloquial in tone and is used more by young people than by older generations.

Polite phrases in Lingala:

Mbote:

This means ‘good morning’ or ‘good evening’ in Lingala. The phrase is used between people who are on familiar terms and have a good relationship.

Sango nini:

In Lingala, this means ‘How are you?’ or ‘What’s new?’ The expression is used to start a conversation. Sometimes the expression is used to greet and say hello to someone.

Ngai malamu, bongo yo:

This means “I’m fine, and you?”

Mantondo mingi:

“Thank you very much.” An essential polite phrase, “mantondo mingi” is said after a kind gesture or a show of consideration.

Kende malamu:

Translated literally, “Kende malamu” means “go in peace” or “take care”. It is the phrase used to say goodbye in Lingala. This polite phrase is often preferred to “tikala malamu” or “Tokomonana”, which mean “stay well” and “see you again” respectively.

Idiomatic expressions in Lingala:

Yebela:

An expression meaning ‘take note’ or ‘be aware’. Yebela is used to warn someone or to emphasise a truth. The expression is used in everyday Lingala conversation.

Bato ya mokili:

‘People of the world.’ Often used to say ‘What can you expect, that’s just how people are…’ when talking about gossip. The expression is used to highlight the diversity of opinions people hold and suggests not paying attention to them.

Banda kala:

“For a very long time.”

Motema mabe:

This expression is used to warn people about jealousy or bad intentions. It means to have a bad heart, to be mean, or to be envious.