Tsumo
The Shona are exceedingly rich in proverbs. Proverbs are a cherished and interesting part of their oral literature.
Definitions nhamburirwa: something that is toiled/ suffered for. riva: stone trap Translation The stomach is worked hard for, as even … Read more
Translation You know you always like to have your fill, yet you scold the granary owner. Application One is cautioned … Read more
Definitions njera: finger millet Translation Millet that gets left behind in the field is the one that gets picked by … Read more
Translation Shame is worse than death Application Sometimes humiliation can be so great that one cannot face others, nor imagine … Read more
Translation The one who tastes is the one who knows whether the meat is fully cooked. Application The most intimate … Read more
Translation A land is its people. Application The success of a nation depends on the effort of its people.
Word Definitions mvana: unmarried woman who has borne a child/ woman past marriage age Translation The womb of a woman … Read more
Translation The thorny path is the one that leads to chieftainship. Application The harder the work, the greater the reward. … Read more
Word definitions rerwa: be brought up. be provided for. be nurtured. Translation A big ox resulted from being provided for. … Read more
Definitions karara – to cough up phlegm; a strong, deep cough associated with bringing up mucus. gaka (pl: makaka) – … Read more
Translation An elephant is not overburdened by its tusks. Application Nobody will resent bearing a burden resulting from something that … Read more
Word definitions mutupo: totem animal, which one abstains from eating machikichori: pleasant tasting food Translation Elephant meat is taboo in … Read more
Translation The elephant ignored advice and ended up growing tusks through the mouth. Application A person who ignores advice usually … Read more
Translation Bit by bit (what has been done), cannot be undone. Application Slow progress is still progress.
Definitions reveteka: talk Translation Where the hoe has done its work, talking is unnecessary. Application If you persevere at something … 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.
