Slang

1. Nambawan

   The best

   Usage

   From "number one". Safe with anyone, for food, views or people

2. Tru tru

   For real

   Usage

   Both an intensifier and a back-channel; not rude even with someone senior

3. Em nau

   That's it / exactly

   Usage

   The standard way to agree with what someone just said; safe with anyone

4. Yumi go

   Let's go

   Usage

   "yumi" is the inclusive we — it signals that you count the listener as one of the group

5. Wanem nau?

   What's up?

   Usage

   A light greeting between friends; with someone older "Yu orait?" is safer

6. Wantok

   Wantok (someone from my language group)

   Usage

   Literally "one talk". A core PNG social concept carrying real obligations to help — do not claim to be someone's wantok yourself

7. Bikpela man

   Big man

   Usage

   A leader of a village or group. It is respectful — never use it mockingly

8. Isi isi

   Take it easy

   Usage

   Means slow down or take care; also works as a parting phrase. Safe with anyone

9. Sap tru

   Sharp / stylish

   Usage

   Youth slang praising someone's look or gear; use it with friends your own age

10. Lukim yu

    See you

    Usage

    Literally "see you"; a light goodbye that works with anyone

11. Tenkyu tru

    Thanks a lot

    Usage

    The same phrase as on the shop card; fine with someone senior

12. Bagarap

    Busted / broken down

    Usage

    The etymology is a coarse English word, but in Tok Pisin it is a neutral everyday term for cars, roads and health. Do not apply it to a person

13. Maski

    Never mind

    Usage

    From Portuguese; also works to wave off someone's apology. Safe with anyone

14. Wanpela taim tasol

    Just once / just a bit

    Usage

    Softens a request or a haggle; handy at a market

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