Tsotsitaal

The dictionary offers an excellent and readable introduction to anyone interested in understanding linguistic aspects of the complex sub-culture of black urban areas in South Africa. The first part offers valuable new insights into the emergence and development of a dynamic lingua franca widely known as Tsotsitaal. This colourful language permeated many corners of the daily lives of people in Sophiatown and neighbouring residential areas. In the second part, the compiler presents an interesting compendium of fascinating words, phrases and expressions which constitute the remarkably versatile lingua franca. The dictionary is meant to provide the reader with a down-to-earth grasp of a powerful medium of communication made up of elements of Afrikaans and a variety of other languages.