Archives: Tsumo

Definitions hwanja: knobkerrie vhika: ward off a blow Translation What can be warded off is a knobkerrie; a word cannot be warded off. Application Words, … Read more

Translation Someone who has washed their hands does not need another person to scoop their food for them. Application Once someone has prepared themselves or … Read more

Translation When the master eats, the servants also eat. Application When someone in a position of responsibility succeeds, those under their care or authority often … Read more

Translation A man only accepts that he is dying when his intestines are spilling out. Application This proverb teaches that one should not surrender to … Read more

Translation The one who grinds the grain tires, yet the sadza is eaten by those who were sitting. Application Sometimes people enjoy the benefits resulting … Read more

Translation Where there is a farmer, there is a grumbler. Application An industrious person is always busy and eager to get things done. As a … Read more

Definitions Rwendo – a journey Ngerwe – (Manyika dialect) contraction of ndere uyo or ndere iye — meaning it belongs to the one who… Atwara … Read more

Definitions karara – to cough up phlegm; a strong, deep cough associated with bringing up mucus. gaka (pl: makaka) – a sleeping bag traditionally made … Read more

Definitions mahobi: The hollow spaces below projecting eyebrows (e.g. of baboon) mubvumbi: Thin shower Translation If you see a baboon soaked beneath its heavy brow … Read more

Definitions nhamburirwa: something that is toiled/ suffered for. riva: stone trap Translation The stomach is worked hard for, as even the mouse dies in a … Read more