In any vibrant Igala speech community, euphemisms serve as the spices that give unique flavour to the language. A euphemism, simply put, is a gentle or indirect word or phrase is used to express a sensitive or an unsavoury idea. But, in Igala speech, euphemisms are more than just polite language – they represent finesse, creativity and a deep understanding of the human experience.
Euphemisms, in Igala thought, go beyond linguistic embellishments on the surface, to serve as essential tools for navigating complex social situations with regard to sex and relationships, cultural realities, taboos and sensitive topics deserving a modicum of decency or decorum. By employing euphemistic expressions, speakers demonstrate respect, regard, empathy and thoughtfulness, avoiding direct use of certain tones that might cause either offence or discomfort to one’s listener(s). For instance, a hysterical mourner who crudely announces a death, shouts out: “Óó, Ókémé lékwū!” sends a stab to the heart, probably causing another death among those listening. But if, in a subdued voice, sighs, “Hmmm,” then, gently releases the ‘barbed’ words: “Í túwa nọ̀ọ́.” (He or she has left us).
Another culturally relevant theme is involved if the man says: “Ẹ́nẹgbání m’ohì kóo lè mẹ́.” (Literally: ‘Our esteemed elder has returned with feedback.’ Feedback about what? Here, we go beyond linguistics into the realms of personal accounts of life on earth, reflecting a people’s belief in judgment after death.
This tone softens the severity of the blow of loss, dressing the words in pleasant tone, showing respect for the deceased. Such nuanced langujagage reflects the Igala values of consideration, courtesy, and communal harmony.
Socio-cultural Factors
Other instances of use of euphemisms:
(i) Taboo Words: Igala society finds the mention of certain words repugnant; so, they look for suitable euphemistic alternatives. These words include
(a) Excrement: This is never called by its name, èchu; instead, it’s called ‘ùbioko’ (backyard bush) or‘ọ̀ọ́nà (roadside), reflecting the cultural places ancient Africans eased themselves before the advent of pit latrines. At times, toilet is called ùgwẹ́rẹ́chẹ̄ (knee-crooking). The word, ‘èlìfọ̀’ (menstrual flow), is replaced with ’ẹ́ñwu or ọ̀gá-onobulẹ’ (a woman’s – thing or sickness).
(b) Genitalia: For purposes of decency or decorum, the names of the man’s or woman’s sex organs – which decorum forbids me to mention – are never called by their names, as they are considered quite a mouthful. Rather they are simply called “ọ́gbá” (front) or “ẹ́ñwu” (thing).
(c) Man-woman affairs: Terms like ‘ténè’ (seek) or ‘lẹ̀ or dàchí + kpaí’ (lie down with) are preferred; while the actual terms (hi) (or fẹ́) are usually muted.
(d) Conflict Resolution: In mediation or peace-making process, temperate usages are employed so as not to aggravate the situation but to pacify the warring parties. For instance, instead of mentioning the actual word, ‘ùjà’ (fight, brawl); or árọ́ọ̀ (quarrel), the alternative, ‘ìhíányì kẹ́kẹ́’ (minor misunderstanding) is settled for. The mediator may even counsel them, using one aphorism or the other, like: Ẹ̀dọ̀-éjẹ ch’ògbógágá ñwu. (The important element to consider is patience, adding: “If you are patient, there’s nothing you cannot achieve, include ‘cooking a stone.’ (signifying the impossible).
More Euphemisms
(e) Òfé-igbéli: Literally, ígbéli refers to hearth-stones, three sizeable rocks/stones on which a cooking-pot is placed in a fireplace. However, euphemistically, it refers to a traditional homestead or household associated with ancestral heritage and roots (hence, the ‘òfé-igbéli’ (underneath the hearthstones).
(f) Úgbo k’ada d’àìkó kọ́lí: (Where father slung his pouch). Literally, the optics is a travelling father slinging his cloth-pouch from a shoulder. But in euphemistic usage, it refers to a guage of satiation. It implies that the food served or just taken is not enough to satiate or fill one up completely. A man may complain that “Ùjẹñwu-í tē tūgbo k’ada d’àìkó kọ́lí tā ṅ.” This meal falls far short of a ration that can quench my hunger.
Interactive Activity
Readers are invited to discuss their favourite euphemisms. It will be fun.
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