Meaning
A directive meaning 'don't bother' or 'don't even try it' — used to warn someone off an action, dismiss a suggestion, or tell them not to trouble themselves. Depending on the tone, it ranges from friendly reassurance ('nuh badda worry, it soon fix') to a sharp warning ('nuh badda try dat wid mi'). Worn from 'don't bother', it is among the most common everyday phrases, waving away a needless effort, a foolish idea, or an unwelcome move, its exact force set by how it is said.
Examples
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Nuh badda cook fi mi, mi nyam already.
Don't bother cooking for me, I've already eaten.
Friendly, telling someone not to go to trouble.
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Nuh badda wid di foolishness.
Don't bother with the foolishness.
Dismissive, warning off unwanted behaviour.
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Nuh badda touch mi tings.
Don't dare touch my things.
Sharp warning tone with 'badda' as 'dare'.
Origin
From English 'not bother', with negator 'nuh/no' and 'badda' a phonological form of 'bother'.
How it’s used
Everyday. Tone determines whether it is caring or a threat; the same phrase can soothe a host or scold a child. 'Badda' can also mean 'dare' in warnings.