Top 10 Everyday Twi Phrases You’ll Actually Use in Ghana

You don’t need to memorize 500 words to start speaking Twi confidently. All it takes is a handful of essential phrases to connect, greet, and express yourself respectfully. Whether you’re shopping in Accra, catching a trotro in Kumasi, or just chatting with Ghanaian friends abroad, these 10 everyday Twi phrases will help you feel at home.

1. ɛte sɛn? – How are you?
   This is one of the most common greetings in Twi. It’s friendly, respectful, and a great way to start a conversation. You can use it when meeting someone for the first time or just saying hello during daily interactions.
   Response: Me ho yɛ (I’m fine).
2. Yɛfrɛ me… – My name is…
   Introduce yourself by saying: Yɛfrɛ me [your name].
   For example: Yɛfrɛ me Ama (My name is Ama).
   It’s a simple way to break the ice and invite someone to share their name too.
3. Meda wo ase – Thank you
   Ghanaians value gratitude, and this phrase is one you’ll use often. Whether someone helps you with directions, serves you food, or simply welcomes you warmly, saying “Meda wo ase” shows appreciation and humility.
4. Me pɛ… – I like…
   Expressing your preferences is easy with this phrase.
   Try saying: Me pɛ fufu (I like fufu) or Me pɛ musik (I like music).
   It’s a great phrase to use when talking about food, activities, or people.
5. Mepa wo kyɛw – Please
   This is a must-know for polite conversation. Whether you’re asking for help, requesting a favor, or ordering something, “Mepa wo kyɛw” makes your request sound respectful.
   Pair it with any phrase to sound more courteous: Mepa wo kyɛw, fa ma me (Please, give it to me).
6. Aane / Dabi – Yes / No
   These basic but powerful words are essential for any conversation.
   Aane means Yes
   Dabi means No
   Use them in responses or when making decisions.
7. Ɛyɛ – It’s good / I’m fine
   This versatile word is used when something is good or to express that you’re okay.
   You can say: Ɛyɛ dɛ (It’s sweet or delicious) or simply Ɛyɛ in response to “ɛte sɛn?”
   It’s one of those words you’ll hear every day in Ghana.
8. Wo ho te sɛn? – How’s your body? (How are you feeling?)
   A more caring way to ask someone how they’re doing.
   It goes beyond a simple greeting—you’re checking on their health and well-being. It shows genuine concern and builds deeper relationships.
9. Ko na bra – Go and come
   This is a popular farewell expression. Instead of just saying goodbye, Ghanaians often say “Ko na aba,” which means go and come back. It carries a sense of warmth, care, and expectation to see the person again soon.
10. Me ho yɛ – I’m fine
    This is your go-to response for several greetings like “ɛte sɛn?” or “Wo ho te sɛn?”
    It’s a simple phrase but one that shows you’re confident and comfortable using Twi.

Practice these phrases daily. Even just five minutes a day can dramatically improve your Twi. Repeat them aloud, write them down, use them in real-life conversations, or practice with friends and tutors.

These everyday Twi phrases may be simple, but they carry deep cultural value. They show respect, build connection, and open the door to authentic engagement with Ghanaian life. Whether you’re preparing for your first visit to Ghana or embracing your heritage from afar, Speak Ghana is here to help you speak with confidence.

Start today, and remember: Meda wo ase. Thank you.