two_wheeler Audio dialogues
Dialogue with a zemidjan driver in Fon
The zemidjan (motorcycle taxi) is Benin’s iconic means of transport. Here are the essential fɔ̀ngbè phrases for negotiating and getting around.
schedule 4 min
signal_cellular_alt Beginner
1
Calling
Hailing a zemidjan
Zémidjan !
Motorcycle taxi!
A ɖò yì fítɛ́ ?
Where are you going?
Un ɖò yì axì mɛ̀
I’m going to the market
AliRoute
YìTo go
Fítɛ́Where
AxiMarket
2
Price
Negotiating the price
Nɛ̌ kà wɛ̀ ?
How much does it cost?
Kanwékpo ɖokpó
A thousand francs
É gbló dín ! Afɔ́kànwé tɛ́nwè
That’s too expensive! 700 francs
É nyɔ́, sɔ́
OK, take it
Akwɛ́Money
Afɔ́kànwé100 CFA francs
Kanwékpo1000 francs
Ðè nú mìLower it for me
3
Destination
Giving directions
Yi nukɔn
Go straight ahead
Lɛ̀ amyɔ̀
Turn left
Lɛ̀ aɖusí
Turn right
Nɔ̀ tè fí !
Stop here!
Negotiating with a zemidjan
Prices are never fixed. Speaking Fon, even at a basic level, can save you 30-40% on the fare. Zemidjan drivers appreciate the effort.
Riding with confidence
With these few phrases, you can get around all of Cotonou by zemidjan with no trouble, and at a good price.
A fɔn ganji à ?
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- Getting started in Fon: the 4-step method — tones, first words, resources
- The Fon video course: see the program — 79 lessons with a native speaker from Cotonou, taught in French
- What is your Fon level? — the free 15-question test