Tsumo

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

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

Seri kweguva hakuna muteuro.

Definitions muteuro: ritual offering, or prayer Translation There is no prayer beyond the grave. Application Sometimes it is too late … 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

Shiri yomusaririra ndiyo yemhina.

Definitions mhina: arrow with wooden head (used for killing birds and mice) Translation A bird that trails behind the rest … Read more

Shumba huru yakabva mukurerwa.

Word definitions rerwa: be brought up. be provided for. be nurtured. Translation A big lion resulted from being provided for. … Read more

Shumba kufura uswa kushaya nyama.

Translation A lion will eat grass because it has nowhere to get any meat. Application A desperate person will take … 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

Shure kweguva hakuna muteuro.

Translation There is no offering beyond the grave. Application It is advisable to settle one’s affairs while there is still … Read more

Simba rehove riri mumvura.

Translation A fish’s power is in the water. Inspiration A fish cannot survive outside water. Application One is more comfortable … Read more

Takabva noko kumhunga, hakuna ipwa.

Word Definitions mhunga: millet ipwa: sugar-cane Translation We have been there and can assure you there is no sugar-cane in … Read more

Taramukai panotamba dera.

Word definitions taramukai: move further apart or away dera: toddler not yet able to walk Translation Spread out when a … Read more

Tenda dzose pwere, hapana asiri munhu.

Word definitions tenda: accept Translation All youngsters should be accepted because they all are human beings. Inspiration All children are … Read more

Totenda yabikwa, imba yepwere.

Word definitions tenda: be convinced Translation The household of a young couple will only be convincing after a meal has … Read more

Worried Your Child Is Behind in Shona?

There’s still time to catch up before the Grade 7 exam.

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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.

    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.

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