Language in pharmacy and science
Why it matters
Start with a greeting
A greeting in a patient’s own language shows respect before the conversation even begins. Trust comes first, and counseling goes better when it does.
Say names with care
Nigerian names carry meaning. Ask how a name is pronounced, then listen to it on Forvo, a free pronunciation dictionary, and practice it.
Check understanding
Ask patients to explain in their own words how they will take a medicine. This teach-back method works in every language and catches misunderstandings early.
For scientists and researchers
Research and collaboration in Nigerian communities go better when partners and participants are greeted in the language they use every day. Consent forms and study materials still need professional translation, not phrase lists.
Warm words for the counter and the lab
Yoruba
- Ẹ kú àárọ̀ (good morning)
- Ẹ kú ọ̀sán (good afternoon)
- Ẹ pẹ̀lẹ́ (sorry for your trouble)
- Ẹ ṣé (thank you)
Igbo
- Ndeewo (hello)
- Kedu? (how are you?)
- Ndo (sorry for your trouble)
- Daalụ (thank you)
Hausa
- Sannu (hello, also said to someone who is unwell or tired)
- Ina kwana (good morning)
- Yaya jiki? (how are you feeling?)
- Na gode (thank you)
Pidgin
- How far? (hello)
- How body? (how are you feeling?)
- Sorry o (sorry for your trouble)
- Thank you o (thank you)
Free professional resources
Think Cultural Health
Free e-learning programs from the HHS Office of Minority Health on culturally and linguistically appropriate care.
National CLAS Standards
Fifteen standards for culturally and linguistically appropriate services, including offering language assistance to patients at no cost to them.
Teach-back method
A short guide from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, with examples you can use at the counter or in a consult.
Heading to Nigeria for a mission or a visit?
Medical missions, conferences, and family visits all go better with a greeting in the local language. Learn the basics before you go, and keep a qualified interpreter or bilingual colleague for anything clinical. See travel phrases and courtesies.