Tsumo

Shona proverbs are a reflection of Shona language, history and culture. They are a cherished and interesting part of Shona oral literature.

Kabva muzai kava kashiri.

Translation That which has hatched is now a bird. Application Once someone has prepared themselves or reached a stage of capability, they should take initiative and handle things on their … Read more

Kamoto kamberevere kanopisa matanda mberi.

Word definitions mberevere: slow burning fire Translation A low-intensity fire left to burn could burn down logs. Application A seemingly minor irregularity could have significantly unfavourable consequences if left unchecked.

Kana museve woda nyama unodauka wega pauta.

Word Definitions uta nemuseve: bow and arrow dauka: spring off Translation When the arrow craves meat, it springs off the bow on its own. Inspiration The bow and arrow is … Read more

Kandiro enda, kandiro dzoka.

Translation Little plate (of food) go, little plate return. Application To receive kindness or assistance from others, one has to be kind or willing to assist others. Similar Proverbs 1. … Read more

Kandiro kanoenda kunobva kamwe.

Translation A small plate (of food) is given to one who has also given one. Application To receive kindness or assistance from others, one has to be kind or willing … Read more

Kandiro kanopfumba kunobva kamwe.

Word definitions pfumba: Please. Give satisifaction Translation A small plate (of food) will (be given to) please someone who has also given one. Application To receive kindness or assistance from … Read more

Kanyenye kotsakatika, gondo roonekwa rakaruma nyama.

Definitions nyenye: Lamb. Kid. gondo: eagle Translation What a coincidence, that an eagle is seen with a piece of meat after a lamb goes missing. Application People are often suspicious … Read more

Kare haagari ari kare.

Translation The past never stays the past. Application Things change with time. What is there today might not be there tomorrow. Similar Proverb 1. Nhasi haasiri mangwana. 2. Pasi mupindu … Read more

Kashiri kasingapambari hakanuni.

Definitions pambara: hunt for food nuna: become plump Translation A bird that does not hunt for food does not plump up. Inspiration Birds spend much of their time on the … Read more

Kubaya tanga nowako, vokunze vakutye.

Definitions baya: to stab or pierce; to cause pain; figuratively, to discipline vatorwa: those who are not kin Translation Discipline your own first so that outsiders may respect you. Application … Read more

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