Tsumo

The Shona are exceedingly rich in proverbs. Proverbs are a cherished and interesting part of their oral literature.

Rinofa harina nzeve, rine nzeve rinozvinzwira.

Translation One that dies has no ears; one that has ears hears for itself. Application One who is attentive or … Read more

Rinonyenga rinohwarara, rinosimudza musoro rawana.

Word definitions nyenga: court hwarara: to bow low in a kneeling position Translation One bows humbly before someone they are … Read more

Ropa uya nderina vatsungi.

Definitions tsunga: Face and withstand with courage. Be determined. uya: good ropa uya: this is an expression for ‘fortunate’ or … Read more

Rume rimwe harikombi churu.

Word definitions churu: anthill komba: surround Translation One man cannot surround an anthill. Application A huge or demanding task is … Read more

Rumoto runakira ndirwo runokonza mbare.

Translation It is a pleasantly warm fire that causes scorch marks on the skin. Application Some things are deceiving in … Read more

Rwaivhi kupinduka nhando, icho chisingagone kuruma.

Definitions rwaivhi: chameleon nhando: pointlessly Translation A chameleon’s ability to change (colour) is a pointless display as the creature doesn’t … Read more

Rwavhi kufamba zvishoma, asi shungu runadzo.

Word Definitions shungu: the feeling of being angry or upset Translation A chameleon still feels upset, even though it moves … Read more

Rwizi rukuru kupwa, mombe dzinonwepi?

Translation Where will cattle drink water when the big river dries up? Application When a provider dies or becomes incapacitated, … Read more

Rwizi runokura nezvikova.

Translation A river grows from tributaries. Application Those in authority should always bear in mind that their strength and influence … Read more

Rwizi ruzere haruedzwi negumbo.

Translation Never use your leg to gauge the depth of water in a full or flooded river. Application One should … Read more

Sango rinopa waneta.

Translation The forest gives to one who has become tired. Inspiration If a hunting expedition continues to progress with no … Read more

Seka urema wafa.

Translation You should never laugh at the affliction of another unless you’re dead. Application You should never mock the shortcomings … Read more

Shambakodzi yakarindwa haiviri.

Word Definitions shambakodzi: cooking pot for sadza Translation The water in a pot which is being watched in anticipation will … Read more

Shiri ine muriro wayo haiuregi.

Translation A bird does not change its song. Inspiration Birds of a particular species stick to calls and songs particular … Read more

Shungu dzinomona kana musungo wapotsa.

Translation Frustration takes hold when a set snare misses a target. Application People become very disappointed when they fail to … Read more

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    ZimbOriginal was born from a passion for discovery and writing, and a commitment to never losing sight of who we are.

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