The Rice University Neologisms Database

Discussion, debate, or origin. Due to the Portuguese influence in Nigeria as a result of trade in as early as the 13th and 14th centuries, many Portuguese words have been adopted into the Nigerian Pidgin English. Palava can be translated as discussion, debate or trouble. One can say, “What kind of palava is this, I don’t need any stress now!” Here, palava translates to trouble or a bad situation. One can also say, “ U better tell your mom now, me I don’t want any palava.” Here palava translates to discussion. Generally palava refers to something negative.