“You be Dundee” or “See this Dundee united” once said to you in Nigeria slang (pigeon English) it means that the person saying it “certainly thinks that you are unintelligent.”
Pigeon English, also known as Nigerian Pidgin
The popular lingua franca in Nigeria is a simplified form of English that combines elements from various Nigerian ethnic languages, English, and other influences. It’s widely spoken across different ethnic groups and regions in Nigeria, serving as a means of communication among people with diverse linguistic backgrounds.
Pidgin English in Nigeria reflects the cultural richness and diversity of the country, incorporating local expressions, idioms, and unique grammar structures. It’s used in informal settings, daily conversations, music, and entertainment, playing a significant role in Nigerian society.
Football Pigeon English Slang Like ‘Issagoal !’
Certainly! Football, being the most beloved sport in Nigeria, has significantly influenced the lexicon of Nigerian Pidgin. The passion and fervor for football have led to the creation of numerous words, phrases, and expressions within the language. Nigerian Pidgin incorporates terms related to football positions, player names, match events, and tactics, reflecting the country’s enthusiasm for the sport.
For instance, terms like “baller,” “striker,” “defender,” “midfield maestro,” and “keeper” are commonly used to refer to players in specific positions. Additionally, phrases like “dem born am for offside,” “chop goal,” “scoreline,” “hat-trick,” and “penalty” are frequently used during discussions or commentary about matches.
Overall, football’s immense popularity in Nigeria has led to the organic development of a rich vocabulary within Nigerian Pidgin, intertwining the sport’s terminology with the vibrant linguistic landscape of the country.
Where the word ‘Dundee’ Originates
Dundee United Football Club is a professional football team based in Dundee, Scotland. Established in 1909, they play their home games at Tannadice Park. The club has a rich history in Scottish football, notably winning the Scottish Premier League once and the Scottish Cup twice. They’ve also made appearances in European competitions, reaching the semi-finals of the UEFA Cup in 1987. The team has a passionate fanbase and plays a significant role in Scottish football history.
Why Do Nigerians Use ‘Dundee United’ To Refer To A Person Accused Of Foolishness
In 1972, Dundee United, a Scottish football team, embarked on a pre-season tour of Nigeria. The tour turned out to be disastrous, with United struggling against local teams. Dundee United secured a 2-2 draw against Stationery Stores on May 27, 1972. The pinnacle of this misfortune was a 2-0 loss to Enugu Rangers in front of a sizable crowd. Many already placed their bet on the big Scottish team winning all matches against a lower tier Nigerian teams.
The phrase “Dundee United” likely stems from this challenging tour, becoming embedded in the Naija lexicon as a word for a ” Fool”, even till date.