Tsumo

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

Chirambakuudzwa akazoonekwa neropa kudonha.

Translation He who refused advice was later seen bleeding. Application A person who rejects all advice usually falls into serious … Read more

Chirega kutya kununa iwe wakasasikwa.

Definitions nuna: ooze fat (while roasting) sasikwa: to be dried out over a fire Translation Do not be afraid to … Read more

Chirere, mangwana chigozokurerawo.

Translation Raise it well, and it will do the same for you tomorrow. Inspiration Traditionally, the family has an obligation … Read more

Chiri mudundu, chiri muninga.

Definitions ninga: large underground cave. dundu: chest Translation What is in one’s heart is (like something) hidden in an underground … Read more

Chiri mumwoyo, chiri muninga.

Word definitions ninga: Large underground cave. Translation What is in the heart is in a hidden underground cave. Inspiration Caves … Read more

Chiri pamuchena, chiri pamawere.

Definitions muchena: poor person mawere: very steep rock face or cliff Translation What is in a poor man’s hands is … Read more

Chiri pamuchena, chiri pamutenure.

Definitions muchena: poor person mutenure: downward slope Translation What is in a poor man’s hands is perched on a slope. … Read more

Chiripo chariuraya, zizi harifi roga nemhepo.

Translation Something must have killed it, an owl doesn’t just die due to the wind. Application When an unusual or … Read more

Chirungurira chirwere, kunyarara unofa nacho.

Word definitions chirungurira: indigestion (heartburn) Translation Indigestion is a disease, and you could die from it if you conceal it. … Read more

Chisi hachieri musi wacharimwa.

Translation The consequences of failing to observe the chisi rest day are not suffered on that very day. Inspiration Chisi … Read more

Chisiri chako rembedza maoko, rega kukungira hata sechako.

Word definitions kungira: roll up hata: head-pad Translation Do not make a head-pad to carry something that does not belong … Read more

Chitanduro ndaamai, mugoti unopiwa anyerere.

Definitions chitanduro: discerning person Translation It is from a mother’s wisdom that the cooking stick is given to the quiet … Read more

Chitiyo kupinda muzai, kuona mai.

Word definitions chitiyo (nhiyo): chick Translation A chick in an egg has seen its mother (do the same). Application The … Read more

Chitsva chiri murutsoka.

Word definitions rutsoka: foot Translation New things are in the foot. Inspiration for proverb The foot is used in reference … Read more

Chiverevere ndechekubaya mombe, chamakombo maitiudzawo.

Word definitions chiverevere: doing something secretly gombo: new agricultural land Translation While slaughtering an ox could be done secretly, we … Read more

Worried Your Child Is Behind in Shona?

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

My Newsletter

Join thousands of subscribers and receive my best stories. You can unsubscribe at any time.

    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.

    Connect With Me

    Categories