Tsumo

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

Wabvunza, watsvara mhosva.

Definitions tsvara: reveal (by scratching) something covered up Translation He who has enquired has revealed the wrong. Application Some things … Read more

Wadya zai, wadya nhiyo yacho.

Translation One who eats an egg also eats the chick. Application Some responsibilities come with other responsibilities, some of which … Read more

Warara, warara nomuromo wake.

Translation One who has gone to sleep, sleeps with his mouth. Application When one dies, the things of this world … Read more

Yambiro hwowa, kutanha isaruraude.

Translation Advice is like mushrooms, you pick what you like. Application You may receive all sorts of free advice, but … Read more

Yaruma sei nzara hurudza kurarira hute?

Translation How severe must the hunger be for a renowned farmer to have water berries for dinner? Application This proverb … Read more

Yatsika dope, yanwa.

Word definitions dope: mud Translation If it (cow) has muddy feet, then it must have had a drink. Inspiration Watering … Read more

Zano hunge une rako.

Translation It is advice when you have your own ideas. Application The meaning of this proverb is quite apparent. While … Read more

Zano pangwa une rakowo.

Translation Receive advice with your own ideas in mind. Application The meaning of this proverb is quite apparent. While it … Read more

Zigadzi kunyangara, asi kuroya harigoni.

Translation A hefty woman is ugly, but incapable of being a witch. Application Some people tend to give the impression … Read more

Zimuonde ziguru kuputsika pwere dzinovanda pai?

Word definitions muonde: fig tree Translation With the huge fig tree fallen down, where will children take shelter? Application When … Read more

Zino irema, rinosekerera anorivenga.

Translation A tooth is a fool; it smiles even at one who dislikes it. Application Sometimes people appear friendly and … Read more

Zino irema, rinosekerera warisingadi.

Translation A tooth is a fool; it smiles even at the one it does not like. Application Sometimes people appear … Read more

Zipfuko rambuya ziramba watonha.

Definitions pfuko: commonly refers to an earthenware pot used for storing liquids (except milk), though some dialect groups also use … Read more

Ziriwo rechembere ziramba waravira.

Translation An old woman’s relish should only be refused after tasting it. Application Do not reject something before giving it … Read more

Zirume kutswinya mwana padama, kuti vari mumba vanzwe.

Translation A huge man who pinches a child on the cheek (and upsets the child) seeks to draw the attention … Read more

Worried Your Child Is Behind in Shona?

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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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