Here are 8 famous phrases every Ghanaian mother has used before

Ghanaian mothers are legendary for their unique expressions and sayings, which are not only rich in wisdom but also with humour, love, and sometimes a hint of sarcasm.

These phrases, passed down through generations, have become a cherished part of Ghanaian culture, offering life lessons, discipline, and reminders of home no matter where one finds oneself.

Let’s dive into some of these favourite phrases and explore the wisdom and wit behind them.

“There’s food at home”

This phrase is a classic. It’s the universal anthem for frugality and home-cooked meals, often heard when children, eyes gleaming with the prospect of eating out, are quickly reminded of the practicality of home.

It’s not just about the food; it’s a lesson in appreciating what you have and understanding the value of home resources.

This phrase teaches financial prudence and the importance of contentment—a lesson in making the most out of life’s simple pleasures.

“I’m in my husband’s house”
A gentle, sometimes humorous, reminder of a woman’s transition into marital life, where the rules and dynamics might differ from her parental home.

This phrase often reminds their daughters that being in your husband’s house is not the same as being in your father’s house.

It’s a nudge towards understanding the delicate balance of relationships and the art of making a new home your own.

“You think you’re doing me, you are doing yourself”

This phrase is laden with irony and serves as a stark reminder of personal responsibility.

Often used when children think they are being clever by cutting corners or being dishonest, only to be reminded that the consequences of their actions will ultimately affect them.

It’s a life lesson wrapped in humour: the importance of integrity and facing the consequences of your actions.

“Is this how you will behave in your husband’s house?”

This question often comes when their daughters cannot do basic house chores. It’s not just about behaviour towards a future spouse but encapsulates the essence of conduct, respect, and responsibility in any setting.

This phrase is a cornerstone in teaching respect, dignity, and the importance of carrying oneself gracefully.

“It’s because you are always on that phone”
All it takes is just one complaint about a headache and your mother will remind you about how you were on your phone.

It’s a lighthearted jab at the youth’s obsession with technology, often blamed for every misdeed or neglect. Beyond the humour, it’s a call to engage more with the world around us, emphasizing the importance of balance, interaction, and living in the moment.

“I didn’t kill my mother; I won’t let you kill me”

A dramatic way to express their frustration, this phrase vividly embodies the challenges of parenting.

It’s a reminder of the cyclical nature of life and parenting roles, emphasizing endurance, patience, and the unspoken strength of mothers.

Through humour, it teaches respect for the hardships and sacrifices of parenting.

“Did I give birth to you, or you gave birth to me?”

This rhetorical question is often used to reaffirm authority and respect within the family hierarchy. It underlines the importance of recognizing and respecting parental sacrifice and guidance.

It’s a reminder of the roles within a family, emphasizing respect, gratitude, and the value of wisdom passed down through generations.

“Come and put it on my head”

This usually comes after you have asked them where to put something when there are many places to put it.

This is a subtle reminder that we as their children need to make decisions for ourselves because they won’t always be around to make decisions for us.

The phrases of Ghanaian mothers are more than just words; they are a vibrant part of the Ghanaian culture, embodying lessons of wisdom, humour, and life’s truths.

They reflect the values of discipline, respect, and love that shape the character of generations. As we laugh, reflect, and sometimes roll our eyes at these phrases, let’s appreciate the profound wisdom and love embedded in these memorable words.

They are not just phrases; they are the heartbeat of Ghanaian maternal wisdom, echoing the timeless connection between mothers and their children.