Tsumo
The Shona are exceedingly rich in proverbs. Proverbs are a cherished and interesting part of their oral literature.
Translation It is good when there are many people; an arrow (fired by the enemy) hit the nephew instead. Application … Read more
Translation It is good when there are many people; an arrow (fired by the enemy) hit the daughter instead. Application … Read more
Word definitions zamura: yawn Translation Only a youngster’s yawn is sincere, that of an adult signals a desire for food. … Read more
Definitions mhangwa: advice zengurira: be unwilling to exert oneself Translation A lack of willingness to act on an elder’s word … Read more
Definitions mbuya: 1. Grandmother 2. Mother in-law (man speaking) Translation One only comes to know the mother-in-law through being told. … Read more
Word Definitions hombarume: a very skilful hunter Translation Having children has no expert. Inspiration Parents strive to raise their children … Read more
Word Definitions ridigikira: make frequent visits to a place benya: elude (discreetly) Translation Now you elude and secretly glance at … Read more
Translation Leave a grindstone behind when you depart, and take one with you wherever you go. Application Treat people and … Read more
Word definitions doo: softened animal skin. hide. Translation it is wear and tear that makes a hide appear as if … Read more
Translation If the mother dies, who is going to caress the children? Application When people lose the one who is … Read more
Translation Fresh basts are used for leashing dogs. Application One should act early, while the best circumstances to succeed at … Read more
Definitions guma (plural: makuma): projecting forehead Translation Baboons laugh at each other’s foreheads. Application People often notice and criticise faults … Read more
Word definitions mhanje: barren woman natsira: Do right by. Please. pwere: children Manatsirapwere: pleaser of children Translation Only a barren … Read more
Translation Too much speed breeds delay. Application Trying to do something too quickly sometimes results in it taking much longer.
Translation Winking in the dark is just straining the forehead unnecessarily. Application There is no point in doing something directed … Read more
Worried Your Child Is Behind in Shona?
There’s still time to catch up before the Grade 7 exam.
About
ZimbOriginal was born from a passion for discovery and writing, and a commitment to never losing sight of who we are.
It is a place for stories on culture, customs, traditions, and anything else indigenous to Zimbabwe. ZimbOriginal not only promotes cultural awareness, but also supports learning and discovery.
