Meaning
Small in size but strong, tough, and formidable — do not underestimate someone or something just because it is little. 'Tallawah' means sturdy and mighty despite smallness. Often said with pride of Jamaica itself, a tiny island that punches far above its weight in music, sport, and spirit, and of small people who are strong and capable.
Examples
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Jamaica likkle but tallawah — wi rule di world inna track.
Jamaica is small but mighty — we rule the world in track.
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Nuh badda wid har size; she likkle but tallawah.
Never mind her size; she's small but formidable.
Origin
A traditional saying; 'tallawah' (sturdy/strong, of African origin) despite being 'likkle' (little). See [[tallawah]], [[likkle-axe-cut-down-big-tree]].
How it’s used
Small but strong/formidable; a source of Jamaican pride. See [[tallawah]], [[likkle-axe-cut-down-big-tree]].