Tsumo
Shona proverbs are a reflection of Shona language, history and culture. They are a cherished and interesting part of Shona oral literature.
Translation Fair enough — like a dark-skinned person’s bath. Application The proverb acknowledges effort or completion, while subtly suggesting that the outcome falls short of expectations.
Definitions ndongwe: grasshoper nhikiti: pumpkin seeds Translation Locust meat is meat nonetheless, and better than having pumpkin seeds as a side-dish. Application Something, even if less than the ideal, is … Read more
Translation A drum makes the sound, ‘my my.’ Inspiration for proverb ‘Pangu is a form of the word ‘my,’ and ‘pangu pangu’ is an ideophone of beating a drum. Application … Read more
Word definitions dzana: dance murirakamwe: time of the first cockcrow Translation The sound of a drum heard before daylight is not one to dance to. Application People are usually suspicious … Read more
Definitions hwenyeri: betrayer Translation White attire is a betrayer. Application Behavior that stands out gives away a person. If someone wants to go undetected, they must avoid doing something that … Read more
Translation One misfortune does not fear another. Application Sometimes misfortunes occur one after another, leaving one helpless.
Translation A pumpkin growing near the roadside invites trouble. Application Publicly noticeable wealth or income could cause one to be a victim of jealousy and hatred.
Translation Today it is on me, tomorrow it will be on you. Application One who is unfeeling towards the misfortunes of others should know that the same could also happen … Read more
Translation Today is not tomorrow. Application Things change with time. What is there today might not be there tomorrow. Similar Proverbs 1. Kare haagari ari kare.
Definitions mapuruuru: tadpoles kondo: hammerkop (a medium-sized wading bird) tandavara: sprawl (in a relaxed or lazy way) Translation The tadpoles have sprawled out today because the hammerkops have sore eyes. … Read more
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About Shungu
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.
