Medaase & More: How to Say Thank You in Twi Without Sounding Basic
By: Chimdindu Ken-Anaukwu
Let’s be honest. Saying “thank you” in English is cool, but in Twi? It’s a whole vibe. Gratitude in Akan culture isn’t just polite; it’s layered, expressive, and sometimes even playful. If you want to impress your Ghanaian friends, or at least avoid sounding like Google Translate, this guide is for you.
🙏 The Classic “Medaase”
The go-to phrase is “Medaase” (pronounced meh-dah-ah-seh). Simple, respectful, and always appropriate. Use it for everything from receiving food to thanking a trotro mate for your change. Think of it as the “thank you very much” of Twi.
Pro tip: Stretch it into “Medaase paa” (thank you very much) if someone really hooked you up.
🎩 Formal Appreciation
When you want to crank up the respect, say at a family gathering or thanking an elder, use:
“Yɛda wo ase” – We thank you (plural/respectful form)
“Meda wo ase” – I thank you
These phrases carry more weight. They’re like the linguistic equivalent of bowing slightly when you shake hands.
😎 Casual & Playful Thanks
Not every situation needs formality. Sometimes you just want to sound cool, grateful, and a little cheeky:
“Medaase oo” – Casual thanks, friendly and relaxed.
“Nyame nhyira wo” – God bless you (a common reply to favors).
“Wo tiri nkwa!” – May you live long! (A dramatic but fun way to show appreciation.)
Say this after someone buys you kelewele at 11 pm and watch them smile.
🎶 Gratitude in Everyday Life
In Akan culture, gratitude shows up everywhere:
At funerals, entire speeches are dedicated to thanking guests.
Street vendors toss “Medaase!” at you faster than you can pack your waakye.
Even in music, artists sprinkle “Medaase” to show respect to fans and ancestors alike.
🧩 Why It Matters
Thanking people in Twi isn’t just language, it’s identity. It shows you respect the culture, understand the values, and know how to connect beyond the surface. Saying “Medaase” might get you a smile; saying it well might get you an extra scoop of jollof.
Final Thoughts
So, next time you want to say thanks, ditch the basic and go full Akan:
Medaase for everyday.
Yɛda wo ase for respect.
Wo tiri nkwa! when you’re feeling extra.
Because gratitude, like plantain, is best when served hot.
Want to practice your Twi phrases and sound like a pro? Explore interactive lessons on the NKENNE app today!
🙌 Medaase for reading!