South Africa forum: A South African/Mozambiquan word.

Posted in the South Africa forum

• Ian Upton

  22 Aug 2009, 09:54

  A South African/Mozambiquan word.

  I was in the north of South Africa and Mozambique recently and was referred to by locals by the term "Madala" (not sure of the spelling) apparently because of my age and grey beard.

  I would like to determine the spelling of this word and it's correct usage.

  Apologies if this is in the wrong forum/s but this is the only place which I could find to ask a question like this.

  Ian

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• Chloe Foster

  21 Oct 2009, 07:20

  madala means "old man"

  I believe that this is the correct spelling. Many of the local languages use the word madala for the same meaning

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• Chloe Foster

  21 Oct 2009, 07:34

  some more..

  If they said "Mudala" it is respectful, but if they said "Madala" it is more a rude word more like they are saying 'useless old man'... you discern. If they laughed at you and wouldn't tell then it is probably the second. They like to joke, sometimes not in y our favour, but most of the times you will find them very respectful unless you offended them in some way.

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• Ian Upton replied to Chloe Foster

  23 Oct 2009, 09:16

  A South African/Mozambiquan word

  Thanks for the responses. Madala, hmmmmm. The attention to this old Aussi from the youngsters was friendly and seemingly in good spirits.

  I have told the story around here in Melbourne and now get referred to as 'Madala" by some of my younger friends.

  I will not explain the difference between the u & a...................

  I have done a lot of running across the Limpopo province of SA. Meet other runners along the way and there is always a friendly wave/smile/etc, the occasional short discussion and some more laughs. Can be interesting as I only speak one word of Sotho.....

  Thanks once again, Ian

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