VOCABULARY

EXPAND YOUR

KNOW EVERYTHING

Building a strong vocabulary is the cornerstone of mastering any language and our Swahili Vocabulary Section is designed to help you express yourself on variety of topics. There is no point in memorising the Grammar if you don't know what things are called so we recommend that your start your Swahili language learning from here. You can also find very specific Swahili words and expressions in the Culture section.

On this page you will find find the basic vocabulary to get started. Our vocabulary lists are carefully curated to cover a wide range of topics. Learning the most common 2,000 words will allow you to understand about 80-90% of everyday spoken or written material, provided you already have a grasp of the grammar. Languages follow th so-called the "Pareto Principle" (80/20 rule), where a small percentage of vocabulary accounts for the majority of communication.

For now we recommend you focus on reading the words a few times a day so that you can recognise them when you encounter them in a text or conversation. Learning Swahili vocabulary will be easier if you already know Arabic and/or English language. After that you can learn start the Grammar section where you will find them in use.

Bring your Swahili language skills to life!

Useful Expressions
Verbs
Numbers
Dates
Time
Family
Colors, Shapes, and Sizes
Food and Drinks
Clothing
Weather
Travel
House
Jobs
Shopping
Health
Hobbies
Education
Nature
Technology
Feelings
Sports
Animals
War
Politics
Swearing

Useful Swahili Expressions

Habari Hello
Habari yako How are you?
Shikamoo Respectful greeting
Marahaba Response to shikamoo
Hujambo How are you?
Sijambo I’m fine
Karibu Welcome
Asante Thank you
Asante sana Thank you very much
Pole Sorry
Pole sana Very sorry
Tafadhali Please
Samahani Excuse me / Sorry
Kwaheri Goodbye
Kwaheri ya kuonana Goodbye until we meet again
Tutaonana baadaye See you later
Nzuri Good
Nzuri sana Very good
Ndiyo Yes
Hapana No
Labda Maybe
Sawa Okay
Hapana shaka No doubt
Jina lako ni nani? What is your name?
Jina langu ni… My name is…
Unatoka wapi? Where are you from?
Ninatoka… I am from…
Unasema Kiswahili? Do you speak Swahili?
Ninaweza kusema Kiswahili kidogo I can speak a little Swahili
Naomba msaada I need help
Nisaidie tafadhali Help me, please
Hii ni nini? What is this?
Hiyo ni… That is…
Unaelewa? Do you understand?
Naelewa I understand
Sielewi I don’t understand
Ni kiasi gani? How much is it?
Ni ghali sana It’s too expensive
Punguza bei tafadhali Reduce the price, please
Nataka kununua… I want to buy…
Haipatikani It’s unavailable
Ndio, ninapenda Yes, I like it
Nina njaa I’m hungry
Nina kiu I’m thirsty
Kula vizuri Enjoy your meal
Chakula hiki ni kitamu This food is delicious
Naweza kupata maji? Can I get water?
Nahitaji kwenda chooni I need to go to the bathroom
Hii ni ladha nzuri This is tasty
Kuna hatari There is danger
Jihadhari Be careful
Hakuna shida No problem
Hakuna matata No worries
Tunaweza kuenda wapi? Where can we go?
Naweza kupata wapi? Where can I find?
Upo wapi? Where are you?
Niko hapa I am here
Unaishi wapi? Where do you live?
Ninaishi… I live…
Unapenda nini? What do you like?
Napenda… I like…
Usiku mwema Good night
Lala salama Sleep well
Habari za asubuhi Good morning
Habari za mchana Good afternoon
Habari za jioni Good evening
Twende Let’s go
Ngoja kidogo Wait a moment
Tafadhali rudi tena Please come again
Hakuna njia nyingine? Is there no other way?
Pole pole Slowly
Haraka haraka Quickly
Kumbuka Remember
Sahau Forget
Pia Also
Labda kesho Maybe tomorrow
Nisaidie tafadhali Help me, please
Baraka nyingi Many blessings
Afya yako Your health
Naomba namba yako May I have your number?
Naomba radhi I apologize
Nahitaji habari I need information
Hii ni kweli? Is this true?
Hiyo ni uongo That is false
Tufanye nini? What should we do?
Nini kinatokea? What’s happening?
Ni wapi tunaenda? Where are we going?
Tafadhali fanya hivyo Please do that
Tutaweza lini? When can we?
Unaweza kuniongoza? Can you guide me?
Ninafuraha kuwa hapa I am happy to be here
Asante kwa msaada wako Thank you for your help
Karibu tena Welcome again

Swahili Verbs

kuona to see
kusikia to hear
kugusa to touch
kunusa to smell
kuonja to taste
kufikiri to think
kujua to know
kuelewa to understand
kukumbuka to remember
kusahau to forget
kuzungumza to speak
kusema to say
kuuliza to ask
kujibu to answer
kuandika to write
kusoma to read
kuimba to sing
kupiga simu to call
kucheza to play
kuangalia to watch
kukimbia to run
kutembea to walk
kuruka to jump
kupanda to climb
kulala to sleep
kuamka to wake up
kukaa to sit
kusimama to stand
kulala chini to lie down
kufungua to open
kufunga to close
kuchukua to take
kuweka to put
kushika to hold
kutoa to give
kula to eat
kunywa to drink
kupika to cook
kununua to buy
kuuza to sell
kuhitaji to need
kutaka to want
kupenda to love
kuchukia to hate
kuhisi to feel
kulia to cry
kucheka to laugh
kuogopa to fear
kujaribu to try
kufanikiwa to succeed
kushindwa to fail
kuanza to start
kuacha to stop
kumaliza to finish
kuendelea to continue
kuishi to live
kufa to die
kuolewa to get married
kuzaa to give birth
kufanya kazi to work
kupumzika to rest
kujifunza to learn
kufundisha to teach
kueleza to explain
kushinda to win
kupoteza to lose
kusafiri to travel
kupakia to pack
kushusha to unload
kuzaliwa to be born
kukubali to accept
kukataa to refuse
kuomba to request
kusamehe to forgive
kusubiri to wait
kusaidia to help
kudhani to guess
kuahidi to promise
kushangaa to be surprised
kuchunguza to investigate
kuona huruma to sympathize
kujitahidi to strive
kuheshimu to respect
kusherehekea to celebrate
kusafisha to clean
kujaribu to try
kushona to sew
kucheza densi to dance
kupiga picha to take a photo
kufikiri to imagine
kupiga kelele to shout
kujitayarisha to prepare
kufurahisha to entertain
kuzunguka to surround
kusonga mbele to move forward
kurudi nyuma to go back
kuzama to sink
kuinuka to rise

Counting in Swahili

sifuri zero
moja one
mbili two
tatu three
nne four
tano five
sita six
saba seven
nane eight
tisa nine
kumi ten
kumi na moja eleven
kumi na mbili twelve
kumi na tatu thirteen
kumi na nne fourteen
kumi na tano fifteen
kumi na sita sixteen
kumi na saba seventeen
kumi na nane eighteen
kumi na tisa nineteen
ishirini twenty
ishirini na moja twenty-one
ishirini na mbili twenty-two
ishirini na tatu twenty-three
ishirini na nne twenty-four
ishirini na tano twenty-five
ishirini na sita twenty-six
ishirini na saba twenty-seven
ishirini na nane twenty-eight
ishirini na tisa twenty-nine
thelathini thirty
thelathini na moja thirty-one
thelathini na mbili thirty-two
thelathini na tatu thirty-three
thelathini na nne thirty-four
thelathini na tano thirty-five
thelathini na sita thirty-six
thelathini na saba thirty-seven
thelathini na nane thirty-eight
thelathini na tisa thirty-nine
arobaini forty
hamsini fifty
sitini sixty
sabini seventy
themanini eighty
tisini ninety
mia moja one hundred
mia mbili two hundred
mia tatu three hundred
mia nne four hundred
mia tano five hundred
mia sita six hundred
mia saba seven hundred
mia nane eight hundred
mia tisa nine hundred
elfu moja one thousand
elfu mbili two thousand
elfu tatu three thousand
elfu nne four thousand
elfu tano five thousand
elfu sita six thousand
elfu saba seven thousand
elfu nane eight thousand
elfu tisa nine thousand
kumi elfu ten thousand
laki moja one hundred thousand
laki mbili two hundred thousand
milioni moja one million
milioni mbili two million
milioni kumi ten million
bilioni moja one billion
nusu half
robo quarter
theluthi third
moja na nusu one and a half
kumi na robo ten and a quarter
mara moja once
mara mbili twice
mara tatu thrice
nusu ya pili second half
theluthi mbili two-thirds
asilimia moja one percent
asilimia kumi ten percent
kila moja each one
moja baada ya nyingine one after another
moja kwa moja direct
moja moja one by one
sawa equal
nusu milioni half a million
nusu ya kumi half of ten
sehemu moja ya tatu one-third
sehemu mbili za tano two-fifths

Dates in Swahili

saa hour
dakika minute
sekunde second
saa moja one o’clock
saa mbili two o’clock
saa tatu three o’clock
saa nne four o’clock
saa tano five o’clock
saa sita six o’clock
saa saba seven o’clock
saa nane eight o’clock
saa tisa nine o’clock
saa kumi ten o’clock
saa kumi na moja eleven o’clock
saa kumi na mbili twelve o’clock
saa nusu half past
robo saa quarter of an hour
nusu saa half an hour
muda wa asubuhi morning time
muda wa mchana afternoon time
muda wa jioni evening time
muda wa usiku night time
alfajiri dawn
adhuhuri midday
usiku wa manane midnight
leo asubuhi this morning
jana jioni yesterday evening
kesho asubuhi tomorrow morning
sasa hivi right now
baadaye later
mapema early
marehemu late
kabla ya mchana before noon
baada ya jioni after evening
haraka quickly
taratibu slowly
kwa muda mfupi for a short time
kwa muda mrefu for a long time
muda uliopita past time
muda wa sasa present time
muda ujao future time
saa ngapi? What time is it?
ni saa ngapi? What is the time?
ni saa moja It is one o’clock
ni saa mbili It is two o’clock
ni saa tatu na nusu It is half past three
ni saa nne na robo It is quarter past four
ni saa tano kasorobo It is quarter to five
ni saa sita mchana It is noon
ni saa sita usiku It is midnight
ni saa saba na dakika tano It is five past seven
ni saa nane na dakika kumi It is ten past eight
ni saa tisa kasoro dakika tano It is five to nine
ni saa kumi kasoro dakika kumi It is ten to ten
ni saa kumi na moja mchana It is eleven in the afternoon
ni saa kumi na mbili jioni It is twelve in the evening
ni wakati wa kwenda It is time to go
ni mapema mno It is too early
ni kuchelewa mno It is too late
subiri dakika moja Wait one minute
je, kuna muda wa kutosha? Is there enough time?
je, tuna wakati? Do we have time?
hakuna haraka There is no rush
hakuna muda wa kutosha There is not enough time
imechelewa It is late
ni wakati wa kupumzika It is time to rest
ni wakati wa kula It is time to eat
ni wakati wa kulala It is time to sleep
saa za kazi working hours
saa za mapumziko break hours
kutwa nzima all day long
jioni yote all evening
usiku wote all night
asubuhi yote all morning
kila saa every hour
kila dakika every minute
kila sekunde every second
wakati wa mapumziko break time
wakati wa kufurahi fun time
wakati wa maombi prayer time
wakati wa kuondoka departure time
wakati wa kuwasili arrival time
muda wa ziada extra time
wakati mwingine another time
mara moja once
mara mbili twice
mara tatu thrice
wakati gani? What time?
wakati huu this time
wakati uliopita last time
wakati ujao next time
wakati wote all the time

Family in Swahili

familia family
mzazi parent
baba father
mama mother
babu grandfather
nyanya grandmother
mjomba uncle (maternal)
shangazi aunt (paternal)
kaka brother
dada sister
mpwa niece/nephew
mjomba mdogo younger uncle
shangazi mdogo younger aunt
mjukuu grandchild
binamu cousin
kaka mkubwa older brother
dada mkubwa older sister
kaka mdogo younger brother
dada mdogo younger sister
mtoto child
mtoto wa kiume son
mtoto wa kike daughter
mke wife
mume husband
shemeji brother-in-law/sister-in-law
mkwe in-law
binti mkwe daughter-in-law
mwana mkwe son-in-law
kaka wa kambo stepbrother
dada wa kambo stepsister
baba wa kambo stepfather
mama wa kambo stepmother
ndugu sibling/relative
rafiki friend
rafiki wa karibu close friend
mpenzi lover
mchumba fiancé/fiancée
mke wa ndoa spouse (wife)
mume wa ndoa spouse (husband)
wazazi parents
watoto children
ndugu wa karibu close relative
uko wa damu blood relative
familia ya karibu immediate family
familia ya mbali extended family
jamaa kinfolk
ndoa marriage
harusi wedding
maharusi bride and groom
bibi harusi bride
bwana harusi groom
pendo love
huruma compassion
uaminifu trust
usikivu attentiveness
shukrani gratitude
heshima respect
usalama safety
faraja comfort
utulivu peacefulness
mgogoro conflict
suluhisho solution
msamaha forgiveness
hasira anger
furaha happiness
tabasamu smile
kulia crying
kujivunia pride
uhusiano relationship
urafiki friendship
ushirikiano partnership
kutegemea dependence
kujitegemea independence
msaada help
kuhudumia care
kujibizana arguing
kupatana reconciliation
maelewano understanding
uhuru freedom
kujifunza learning
kujali caring
kusaidia helping
kuhurumia sympathizing
kubembeleza comforting
kushirikiana collaborating
kukumbatiana hugging
kusalimiana greeting each other
kucheka laughing
kuwasiliana communicating
kupendana loving each other
kuelewana understanding each other
kuheshimiana respecting each other
kutunzana taking care of each other
kuaminiana trusting each other
kuwa na furaha being happy together

Colors, Shapes, and Sizes in Swahili

rangi color
nyekundu red
bluu blue
kijani green
manjano yellow
nyeupe white
nyeusi black
kahawia brown
zambarau purple
waridi pink
kijivu grey
dhahabu gold
shaba bronze
fedha silver
rangi ya bahari aqua
rangi ya machungwa orange
rangi ya kijivu ash
rangi ya mizeituni olive
rangi ya hudhurungi tan
rangi ya kaki khaki
dufu dull
angavu bright
nzito dark
mpauko light
mviringo round
mstatili rectangle
mchemraba square
mduara circle
pembe tatu triangle
pembe nne quadrilateral
umbo la moyo heart-shaped
umbo la nyota star-shaped
umbo la mviringo oval-shaped
umbo la mshale arrow-shaped
umbo la wimbi wave-shaped
umbo la upinde arch-shaped
mistari lines
mchongo curve
mwinuko arc
mistari wima vertical lines
mistari mlalo horizontal lines
umbo tambarare flat shape
umbo refu tall shape
umbo pana wide shape
umbo jembamba narrow shape
umbo kubwa large shape
umbo dogo small shape
umbo zito heavy shape
umbo nyepesi light shape
nene thick
nyembamba thin
refu long
fupi short
pana wide
finyu narrow
nzito heavy
nyepesi light
mbamba slim
bapa flat
kubwa big
dogo small
sawazisha symmetrical
si sawazisha asymmetrical
wakati wote even
isiyo wakati wote uneven
ukubwa size
mwonekano appearance
upana width
urefu length
unene thickness
umbo la kawaida regular shape
umbo la pekee irregular shape
mwangaza brightness
vivuli shades
mng’aro shiny
kijivu cha mwanga light grey
kijani kibichi light green
manjano kali bright yellow
rangi ya giza dark color
rangi ya moto fiery color
rangi ya maji watery color
mseto wa rangi multicolored
mchanganyiko wa rangi color blend
rangi ya nyuma background color
rangi ya mbele foreground color
rangi ya mchanga sand color
rangi ya anga sky color
umbo wa kufurahisha pleasant shape
umbo wa kushangaza astonishing shape
umbo la kawaida normal shape
umbo la ajabu strange shape
ukubwa wa kawaida normal size

Family in Swahili

Food and Drinks in Swahili

chakula food
kikombe cup
kijiko spoon
kisu knife
uma fork
sahani plate
bakuli bowl
chupa bottle
kikombe cha chai teacup
glasi glass
kahawa coffee
chai tea
maziwa milk
juisi juice
soda soda
maji water
pombe beer
mvinyo wine
mtindi yogurt
mkate bread
chapati flatbread
wali rice
ugali maize meal
ndizi banana
embe mango
nanasi pineapple
papai papaya
limau lime
chungwa orange
tikiti maji watermelon
zabibu grapes
tufaha apple
pera guava
parachichi avocado
viazi potatoes
viazi vitamu sweet potatoes
mahindi corn
karoti carrot
nyanya tomato
kitunguu onion
kitunguu saumu garlic
biringanya eggplant
hoho bell pepper
mboga vegetables
kabichi cabbage
saladi salad
nyama meat
samaki fish
kuku chicken
mbuzi goat
ng’ombe beef
mayai eggs
supu soup
biriani pilaf
pilau spiced rice
mandazi doughnuts
sukari sugar
chumvi salt
pilipili pepper
viungo spices
asali honey
siagi butter
jamu jam
unga flour
mchele uncooked rice
korosho cashew nuts
karanga peanuts
ufuta sesame
ndimu lemon
tangawizi ginger
mdalasini cinnamon
unga wa ngano wheat flour
unga wa mahindi maize flour
maharagwe beans
mbaazi pigeon peas
kunde cowpeas
choroko green grams
dagaa small fish
chapati tamu sweet flatbread
keki cake
biskuti biscuits
chocolate chocolate
pipi candy
barafu ice cream
supu ya mboga vegetable soup
supu ya kuku chicken soup
supu ya nyama meat soup
kitafunio snack
chakula cha mchana lunch
chakula cha jioni dinner
chakula cha asubuhi breakfast
chakula cha haraka fast food
kula to eat
kunywa to drink
kupika to cook
kuchanganya to mix
kuonja to taste
kununua chakula to buy food
kuandaa chakula to prepare food

Family in Swahili

nguo clothes
shati shirt
suruali trousers
sketi skirt
gauni dress
blauzi blouse
suti suit
koti coat
sweateri sweater
fulana t-shirt
jaketi jacket
kaputula shorts
soksi socks
viatu shoes
kiatu cha michezo sports shoe
kiatu cha rasmi formal shoe
viatu vya ngozi leather shoes
kiatu cha kike women’s shoe
kiatu cha kiume men’s shoe
sandaleti sandals
buti boots
kofia hat
kofia ya jua sun hat
kofia ya baridi woolen hat
kilemba turban
hijabu hijab
mtandio shawl
shungi headscarf
leso handkerchief
tie tie
tai bow tie
glovu gloves
mavazi rasmi formal wear
mavazi ya kazi workwear
mavazi ya harusi wedding attire
vazi la jadi traditional outfit
kanga printed wrap
khanga cotton wrap cloth
kitenge decorative cloth
buibui abaya
kanzu men’s tunic
joho robe
sandarusi silk garment
sindiria bra
nguo za ndani underwear
chupi panties
boksa boxers
singlendi undershirt
kamisi petticoat
soksi za baridi woolen socks
kiatu cha ndani slipper
kitambaa fabric
kitambaa cha hariri silk fabric
kitambaa cha pamba cotton fabric
kitambaa cha jute jute fabric
mfuko pocket
kifungo button
zipu zipper
ukosi collar
mkanda belt
mshipi waistband
vitambaa vya mapambo decorative fabrics
pindo hem
shingo ya nguo neckline
mkononi sleeve
mikono mirefu long-sleeved
mikono mifupi short-sleeved
nguo ya kawaida casual wear
nguo ya kupumzika loungewear
mavazi ya michezo sportswear
mavazi ya kupanda mlima hiking clothes
vazi la kuogelea swimwear
jozi ya nguo set of clothes
mzigo wa nguo bundle of clothes
rinda apron
koti la mvua raincoat
koti la baridi winter coat
koti la ngozi leather jacket
viatu vya mvua rain boots
viatu vya majira ya joto summer shoes
kofia ya mpira cap
shela veil
mafuta ya viatu shoe polish
kiatu kipya new shoe
kiatu kilichochakaa worn-out shoe
vazi jipya new outfit
nguo ndefu long dress
nguo fupi short dress
suruali za kawaida casual trousers
sketi ya rangi colored skirt
nguo za watoto children’s clothes
nguo za watu wazima adult clothes
kofia ya watoto children’s hat
suruali ya watoto kids’ trousers

Weather in Swahili

hali ya hewa weather
jua sun
mvua rain
upepo wind
baridi cold
joto heat
kiangazi dry season
masika rainy season
kifuku humidity
mawingu clouds
wingu cloud
umande dew
ukungu fog
theluji snow
barafu ice
upepo mkali strong wind
kimbunga cyclone
tufani storm
radi thunder
ngurumo thunderclap
umeme lightning
kiangazi kikali drought
joto kali extreme heat
baridi kali extreme cold
mchana daytime
usiku nighttime
alfajiri dawn
jioni evening
joto la jua sunshine
kivuli shade
upepo wa bahari sea breeze
mafuriko floods
ukame dryness
kipupwe cold season
kimbunga cha vumbi dust storm
mzunguko wa hewa air circulation
halijoto temperature
chini ya sifuri below zero
juu ya sifuri above zero
usimbishaji precipitation
unyevunyevu dampness
joto la chini low temperature
joto la juu high temperature
msimu wa mvua rainy season
msimu wa joto summer season
msimu wa baridi winter season
majira ya kuchipua spring season
majira ya kupukutika autumn season
upepo wa moto hot wind
upepo wa baridi cold wind
ukungu mzito thick fog
theluji nyingi heavy snow
mvua ya rasharasha drizzle
mvua kubwa heavy rain
mvua ya mawe hailstorm
mvua ya ghafla sudden rain
mawio sunrise
machweo sunset
pambazuko dawn light
anga sky
anga wazi clear sky
anga ya mawingu cloudy sky
upepo wa kimbunga hurricane wind
kiangazi kirefu long drought
wimbi wave
ngurumo ya radi thunderstorm
jua kali scorching sun
mawimbi makubwa big waves
majira ya upepo windy season
hali ya mvua rainy condition
halijoto ya wastani average temperature
joto lenye unyevunyevu humid heat
baridi kavu dry cold
upepo wa msimu seasonal wind
kimbunga cha maji water spout
anguko la theluji snowfall
patanisho la hali ya hewa weather forecast
kiwango cha mvua rainfall level
kasi ya upepo wind speed
msimu wa pepo za bahari monsoon season
miale ya jua sun rays
vipindi vya jua sunny spells
upepo wa polepole gentle breeze
mawingu mepesi light clouds
jua la mchana midday sun
jua la alasiri afternoon sun
jua linachomoza the sun is rising
jua linatua the sun is setting
mawingu mazito thick clouds
kifuku cha asubuhi morning mist
kiwango cha baridi cold level
kipupwe kikali intense cold season

Travel in Swahili

safari journey
kusafiri to travel
msafiri traveler
njia route
ramani map
mji city
kijiji village
eneo region
mtaa street
barabara road
stendi ya mabasi bus station
uwanja wa ndege airport
kituo cha treni train station
bandari port
meli ship
ndege plane
gari car
pikipiki motorcycle
baiskeli bicycle
teksi taxi
basi bus
treni train
matatu minibus
tiketi ticket
nauli fare
viza visa
pasipoti passport
mzigo luggage
begi bag
mkoba backpack
hoteli hotel
lodge lodge
kambi camp
chakula cha kusafiri travel food
maji ya kunywa drinking water
mwongozo wa safari travel guide
kiongozi wa watalii tour guide
mgeni guest
** mwenyeji** host
shughuli za watalii tourist activities
ziara tour
kuhifadhi to book
kufika to arrive
kuondoka to depart
kupanda to board
kushuka to disembark
kupumzika to rest
kutembelea to visit
kuvuka to cross
kupotea to get lost
kuuliza njia to ask for directions
kujifunza to learn
kutafuta to search
kutembea to walk
kukimbia to run
kuendesha gari to drive
kuruka to fly
kuhifadhi tiketi to reserve a ticket
kugundua to explore
kupiga picha to take photos
kupanga safari to plan a trip
kufurahia to enjoy
kurudi to return
kujaribu chakula kipya to try new food
kutafuta hoteli to look for a hotel
kuchunguza to investigate
kupiga kambi to camp
kutembelea mbuga to visit a park
kutembea kando ya pwani to walk along the beach
kusafiri kwa ndege to travel by plane
kusafiri kwa gari to travel by car
kusafiri kwa meli to travel by ship
kupanda mlima to climb a mountain
kuogelea to swim
kupanda mashua to board a boat
kutembelea makumbusho to visit a museum
kukaa hoteli to stay in a hotel
kutembea sokoni to walk in the market
kuhudhuria tamasha to attend a festival
kutembelea sehemu za kihistoria to visit historical sites
kutembea porini to walk in the wilderness
kupanda ndege to board a plane
kuvuka mpaka to cross a border
kupoteza mzigo to lose luggage
kuomba msaada to ask for help
kujifunza lugha mpya to learn a new language
kupata uzoefu mpya to gain new experiences
kuhifadhi mazingira to protect the environment
kufurahia tamaduni to enjoy cultures
kupumua hewa safi to breathe fresh air

House in Swahili

nyumba house
chumba room
sebuleni living room
jiko kitchen
bafuni bathroom
chumba cha kulala bedroom
ukumbi hallway
ghorofa floor
dari ceiling
sakafu floor (surface)
mlango door
dirisha window
pazia curtain
paa roof
ukuta wall
ngazi stairs
korido corridor
mwanzi balcony
hodi entryway
jiko la kupika stove
kabati cupboard
meza table
kiti chair
kitanda bed
mto pillow
shuka sheet
godoro mattress
blanketi blanket
kifaa cha umeme appliance
taa lamp/light
tawi branch (decorative)
kioo mirror
sufuria cooking pot
jiko la gesi gas stove
friji refrigerator
kifaa cha kupasha microwave
televisheni television
redio radio
simu ya mezani landline phone
zulia carpet
fremu ya picha picture frame
sinki sink
bafu bathtub
choo toilet
mtungi wa maji water container
tangi la maji water tank
nguo za ndani wardrobe (clothes inside)
kibao cha kuning'inia hanging board
ukuta wa nje outer wall
ua fence
bustani garden
mchanga sand
simiti cement
taji crown molding
madirisha makubwa large windows
mahali pa moto fireplace
chumba cha kuhifadhi storage room
kibanda shed
kibanda cha nje gazebo
miti ya kivuli shade trees
pishi la nje outdoor kitchen
njia ya kuingilia driveway
eneo la maegesho parking area
jiwe stone
mbao wood
rangi ya nyumba house paint
ufunguo key
kufuli lock
dirisha la pembeni side window
dirisha la mbele front window
mpira wa umeme electric wire
feni fan
hewa safi ventilation
mifereji ya maji taka sewage pipes
takataka trash
kibuyu cha takataka trash bin
mifereji ya maji safi clean water pipes
kivuli cha dirisha window shade
kitanda cha wageni guest bed
sebule ya nje outdoor lounge
pamba za mapambo decorative fabrics
mlango wa mbele front door
mlango wa nyuma back door
tenga la kuhifadhi vyombo dish rack
fremu za milango door frames
boriti beam
sakafu ya mbao wooden floor
mwanga wa asili natural light
eneo la kupumzika relaxation area
mahali pa michezo play area
eneo la kufanya kazi work area
baridi ya ndani indoor cooling
viti vya kupumzika lounge chairs
kitambaa cha sakafu floor mat

Jobs in Swahili

kazi job
ajira employment
tajiri employer
mwajiriwa employee
bosi boss
mfanyakazi worker
mkurugenzi director
meneja manager
mhasibu accountant
karani clerk
katibu secretary
dereva driver
mpishi chef/cook
mwalimu teacher
daktari doctor
muuguzi nurse
askari soldier/police officer
mwendesha mashtaka prosecutor
wakili lawyer
hakimu judge
mwanasheria legal officer
mhandisi engineer
mchoraji artist
mbunifu designer
mjenzi builder
fundi seremala carpenter
fundi umeme electrician
fundi bomba plumber
mwanasayansi scientist
mwanauchumi economist
mwanahabari journalist
mwandishi wa habari reporter
mpiga picha photographer
mpiga chapa printer
mchapishaji publisher
mwigizaji actor/actress
mchekeshaji comedian
mwanamuziki musician
mtunzi wa nyimbo songwriter
mtangazaji presenter/host
mchezaji athlete/player
kocha coach
mwanariadha runner/athlete
mvuvi fisherman
mkulima farmer
mchungaji pastor/shepherd
mchuuzi vendor
muuzaji salesperson
mtoa huduma service provider
mkurugenzi wa masoko marketing director
mtafiti researcher
mhandisi wa programu software engineer
mtaalamu wa IT IT specialist
mfanyabiashara businessperson
tajiri wa biashara business magnate
mwanadiplomasia diplomat
mtafsiri translator
mkalimani interpreter
mwandishi wa vitabu author
mchapishaji wa magazeti newspaper publisher
msanii artisan/artist
mwanamitindo fashion designer
mtayarishaji producer
mpangaji wa hafla event planner
mpishi wa keki pastry chef
mtoa mafunzo trainer
meneja wa miradi project manager
mhifadhi wa mazingira environmentalist
mwongoza watalii tour guide
mtaalamu wa lishe nutritionist
mpangaji wa nyumba real estate agent
mpangaji wa safari travel agent
msimamizi wa mali property manager
mchoraji wa ramani cartographer
mhandisi wa mitambo mechanical engineer
mhandisi wa ndege aerospace engineer
mchumi economist
mfanyakazi wa benki bank teller
msimamizi wa benki bank manager
mshauri wa kifedha financial advisor
msimamizi wa hoteli hotel manager
mtoa huduma ya simu call center agent
mwanaanga astronaut
mnajimu astrologer
mchambuzi wa data data analyst
mfanyakazi wa shambani farm laborer
mfanyakazi wa kiwandani factory worker
mchimbaji wa madini miner
mwendesha bodaboda motorbike operator
mwenye duka shopkeeper
mtunza bustani gardener
mchongaji wa vinyago sculptor
mchoraji wa michoro illustrator
msimamizi wa duka store manager
msimamizi wa ghorofa building supervisor
mwanasiasa politician

Shopping in Swahili

duka shop
soko market
mnunuzi buyer
muuzaji seller
mnada auction
bidhaa goods
bei price
punguzo la bei discount
bora quality
rahisi cheap
ghali expensive
malipo payment
fedha taslimu cash
kadi ya benki bank card
mikopo credit
bei ya jumla wholesale price
bei ya rejareja retail price
ofisi ya malipo checkout counter
mfuko bag
trolley cart
karatasi ya orodha shopping list
reja reja retail
mashine ya malipo cash register
maelewano bargaining
bei ya mwisho final price
mkataba deal
zawadi gift
stoo store
ghala warehouse
kuzunguka to browse
kununua to buy
kuuza to sell
kuweka akiba to save money
kulipia to pay for
kujaribu to try on
kubeba to carry
kurudisha to return
kuchagua to choose
kuagiza to order
kutafuta to search for
kupunguza bei to reduce the price
kujibu maswali to answer questions
kutoa punguzo to give a discount
kuwasilisha to deliver
kukubaliana to agree
kusaini risiti to sign a receipt
kubadilisha to exchange
kutathmini to evaluate
kukagua to inspect
kuhakiki to verify
kudai punguzo to demand a discount
kukusanya to collect
kupakia to pack
kupakua to unpack
kuondoka dukani to leave the shop
kuridhika to be satisfied
kukamilisha malipo to complete payment
kuhamisha fedha to transfer money
kutunza risiti to keep the receipt
kurudia tena to return again
kuona bidhaa to view goods
kutoa oda to place an order
kuleta bidhaa to bring goods
kuweka oda to make an order
kudhibiti gharama to control expenses
kuchunguza bei to check prices
kushinda mnada to win an auction
kupoteza pesa to lose money
kusimamia maduka to manage shops
kusoma orodha to read a list
kuandika orodha to write a list
kutuma oda to send an order
kufungua duka to open a shop
kufunga duka to close a shop
kuweka akiba to save
kutumia kadi to use a card
kuangalia bidhaa to look at products
kuchelewa kulipa to delay payment
kuchukua risiti to take a receipt
kuweka rehani to mortgage
kusafisha duka to clean the shop
kuweka bidhaa to stock goods
kuonyesha bidhaa to display products
kuweka bei to set a price
kuongeza bei to increase the price
kupunguza gharama to cut costs
kuchagua zawadi to choose a gift
kubadilisha mawazo to change one’s mind
kufurahia ununuzi to enjoy shopping
kuwakaribisha wateja to welcome customers
kutangaza bidhaa to advertise products
kupokea bidhaa mpya to receive new items

Health in Swahili

afya health
ugonjwa illness
dawa medicine
hospitali hospital
kliniki clinic
matibabu treatment
chanjo vaccine
uchunguzi examination
upasuaji surgery
shinikizo la damu blood pressure
mapigo ya moyo heartbeat
moyo heart
ubongo brain
mapafu lungs
figo kidneys
ini liver
mfupa bone
mifupa bones
misuli muscles
ngozi skin
macho eyes
sikio ear
pua nose
mdomo mouth
ulimi tongue
meno teeth
mshipa vein
damu blood
tumbo stomach
utumbo intestine
mkojo urine
vidole fingers
mguu leg
mkono hand
kichwa head
shingo neck
mgongo back
ubavu rib
taya jaw
matako buttocks
kiuno waist
kifua chest
ugonjwa wa moyo heart disease
shida ya kupumua breathing problem
kupumua to breathe
kuuma to hurt
kupona to recover
kulazwa to be admitted
kupasuliwa to undergo surgery
kupima to measure
kupima damu to test blood
kusikia to hear
kuona to see
kuongea to speak
kuuma kichwa to have a headache
kuchoka to feel tired
kupoteza fahamu to lose consciousness
kukohoa to cough
kutapika to vomit
kuharisha to have diarrhea
kupata homa to have a fever
kupata jeraha to get an injury
kupata maumivu to feel pain
kupiga chafya to sneeze
kupiga mswaki to brush teeth
kufanya mazoezi to exercise
kulala to sleep
kuamka to wake up
kula to eat
kunywa maji to drink water
kupumzika to rest
kuepuka maambukizi to avoid infections
kuvaa barakoa to wear a mask
kunawa mikono to wash hands
kujitibu to self-medicate
kushauriana to consult
kupokea chanjo to receive a vaccine
kuhudhuria kliniki to attend a clinic
kufanya uchunguzi to do a check-up
kutunza afya to maintain health
kuimarisha kinga to boost immunity
kuishi maisha mazuri to live a healthy life
kusoma dalili to read symptoms
kushughulikia afya to manage health
kupata ushauri to get advice
kushinda ugonjwa to overcome illness
kuwasaidia wagonjwa to help patients
kuzingatia lishe to observe nutrition
kuhifadhi afya to preserve health
kuzuia magonjwa to prevent diseases

Hobbies in Swahili

burudani entertainment
shughuli za burudani recreational activities
kupiga picha to take photos
kusoma vitabu to read books
kuandika to write
kucheza muziki to play music
kuimba to sing
kupiga gitaa to play the guitar
kupiga kinanda to play the piano
kucheza filamu to act in films
kutengeneza video to create videos
kuangalia sinema to watch movies
kutazama televisheni to watch television
kusikiliza muziki to listen to music
kupika to cook
kuoka to bake
kutengeneza mapishi mapya to create new recipes
kupanda mlima to climb mountains
kutembea to walk
kukimbia to run
kuchora to draw
kuchonga to carve
kupaka rangi to paint
kutengeneza sanamu to sculpt
kufuma to knit
kushona to sew
kutengeneza mikoba to make bags
kusuka to braid
kufanya mazoezi to exercise
kucheza michezo to play games
kucheza bao to play board games
kucheza karata to play cards
kupiga mbizi to dive
kuogelea to swim
kupanda baiskeli to ride a bicycle
kuendesha pikipiki to ride a motorcycle
kuendesha gari to drive a car
kupanda farasi to ride a horse
kulima bustani to garden
kupanda maua to plant flowers
kutunza bustani to care for a garden
kuchunguza maumbile to explore nature
kupiga kambi to camp
kufanya uvuvi to fish
kupanda miti to plant trees
kukusanya vitu to collect items
kukusanya stempu to collect stamps
kukusanya sarafu to collect coins
kukusanya picha to collect pictures
kupanga safari to plan trips
kusafiri to travel
kutembelea makumbusho to visit museums
kutembelea sehemu za kihistoria to visit historical sites
kuandika blogu to write blogs
kushiriki mijadala mtandaoni to participate in online discussions
kucheza densi to dance
kusoma magazeti to read newspapers
kupiga ala za muziki to play musical instruments
kufuga wanyama to keep pets
kutunza wanyama to care for animals
kupamba nyumba to decorate a house
kutengeneza fanicha to make furniture
kutengeneza magari to repair cars
kusoma ramani to study maps
kujifunza lugha mpya to learn new languages
kupanga picha to arrange photos
kupamba ukuta to decorate walls
kuunda vazi to design clothes
kusoma vitabu vya hadithi to read storybooks
kuandika shairi to write poetry
kuchunguza historia to study history
kusoma sayansi to study science
kupanda mboga to grow vegetables
kupanga bustani to landscape
kupiga marimba to play marimba
kuimba kwaya to sing in a choir
kupiga tarumbeta to play the trumpet
kupanga nyumba to organize the house
kujifunza upishi to learn cooking
kutengeneza vinyago to make crafts
kupanga matukio to organize events
kufanya kazi za mikono to do crafts
kuchunguza anga to explore the sky
kuendesha mashua to sail a boat
kupanda mashua to row a boat
kupiga ramli to play darts
kuendesha kitingo to drive a tractor
kupiga ngoma to play drums
kuchora ramani to draw maps
kusoma kitabu cha sayansi to read a science book
kufurahia burudani to enjoy entertainment

Education in Swahili

elimu education
shule school
chuo college
chuo kikuu university
darasa classroom
mwanafunzi student
mwalimu teacher
walimu teachers
somu subject
kitabu book
vitabu books
daftari notebook
kalamu pen
penseli pencil
rula ruler
ufutio eraser
kibao cha darasani chalkboard
chaki chalk
kompyuta computer
kitivo faculty
sayansi science
hisabati mathematics
lugha language
historia history
jiografia geography
sanaa art
muziki music
maktaba library
msomo lesson
mtihani exam
karatasi ya mtihani exam paper
daraja grade
shahada degree
mafunzo training
marudio revision
mazoezi exercises
mahitaji ya shule school supplies
bweni dormitory
meza ya kusomea study desk
kiti cha kusomea study chair
ratiba timetable
masomo ya ziada extra lessons
msaidizi wa mwalimu teacher's assistant
kiongozi wa darasa class monitor
somo la msingi core subject
somo la hiari optional subject
karani wa shule school clerk
siku ya shule school day
siku ya likizo holiday
ada ya shule school fees
bodi ya shule school board
taaluma academic
mwandishi wa bodi board writer
mashindano ya shule school competition
zoezi la darasa class activity
kundi la masomo study group
utafiti research
projekti project
stadi za maisha life skills
kanuni za shule school rules
nidhamu discipline
kiongozi wa wanafunzi student leader
bodi ya mitihani examination board
siku ya mahafali graduation day
ufadhili wa masomo scholarship
mazungumzo ya kitaaluma academic discussions
seminari seminar
kongamano conference
wakufunzi trainers
washiriki wa semina seminar participants
mshauri wa kitaaluma academic advisor
kujifunza to learn
kufundisha to teach
kusoma to study
kuandika to write
kufuta to erase
kujadiliana to discuss
kuuliza maswali to ask questions
kujibu maswali to answer questions
kupata elimu to gain knowledge
kuhitimu to graduate
kuendeleza elimu to further education
kujiunga na shule to join school
kurudia mtihani to retake an exam
kufanya utafiti to do research
kusahihisha to correct
kupata daraja nzuri to get a good grade
kutunukiwa shahada to be awarded a degree
kutoa mhadhara to give a lecture
kupanga ratiba to plan a schedule
kushiriki mijadala to participate in discussions
kutengeneza mazoezi to create exercises
kufanya mazoezi to practice
kushinda mashindano to win competitions

Nature in Swahili

asili nature
mazingira environment
mlima mountain
bonde valley
mto river
ziwa lake
bahari ocean
pwani coast
kisiwa island
kijito stream
maporomoko ya maji waterfall
bwawa dam
ardhi land
udongo soil
mchanga sand
mwamba rock
mwani seaweed
jangwa desert
misitu forest
msitu wa mvua rainforest
kichaka bush
shamba farm
eneo tambarare plain
kilima hill
ufuo shore
mwangaza wa jua sunlight
mwanga wa mwezi moonlight
upepo wind
mawingu clouds
angani sky
upepo wa bahari sea breeze
upepo wa mlima mountain breeze
mvua rain
mafuriko flood
umande dew
barafu ice
theluji snow
kimbunga storm
upepo mkali strong wind
mawio sunrise
machweo sunset
mwavuli wa miti canopy
uvuli shade
nyasi grass
mmea plant
maua flowers
mbegu seed
mti tree
majani leaves
matunda fruits
mizizi roots
gugu weed
mchanga wa dhahabu golden sand
toba mud
volkeno volcano
lava lava
jiwe stone
mawe stones
mafumbu pebbles
wingu zito thick cloud
ukungu fog
baridi cold
joto heat
moto wa asili natural fire
chemchemi spring
geyser geyser
mianzo ya maji water sources
eneo la nyanda savanna
eneo la jangwa desert area
sehemu za vilima hilly regions
matone ya mvua raindrops
mazingira ya kijani green environment
mwamba wa bahari sea cliff
mwamba wa mto river rock
tope la mvua muddy rain
udongo wenye rutuba fertile soil
mianzo ya upepo wind sources
mwinuko elevation
sehemu ya chini lowland
sehemu ya juu upland
mandhari ya kuvutia beautiful scenery
maji ya chemchemi spring water
kioo cha maji water reflection
nchi tambarare flatland
milima ya mbali distant mountains
barabara ya misitu forest trail
mto mkubwa large river
kiwango cha maji water level
upana wa mto river width
urefu wa mlima mountain height
mbuga ya asili natural park
eneo la majani grassy area
sehemu ya mwanga sunlit area
eneo la kivuli shady area

Technology in Swahili

teknolojia technology
kompyuta computer
simu ya mkononi mobile phone
mtandao internet
intaneti internet
barua pepe email
programu software
maunzi hardware
kifaa device
skrini screen
kibodi keyboard
kipanya mouse
seva server
modemu modem
routeri router
muunganisho connection
uhifadhi storage
hifadhidata database
kidhibiti controller
kijisehemu chip
inteligensia bandia artificial intelligence
roboti robot
kamera camera
picha dijitali digital image
mfumo wa uendeshaji operating system
programu tumizi application software
lengo la dijitali digital goal
alama ya kidijitali digital signature
nenosiri password
sehemu ya kazi workspace
jalada file
folda folder
ufunguo wa USB USB drive
kadi ya kumbukumbu memory card
mawasiliano communication
ujumbe mfupi text message
video mkondoni online video
maudhui content
kijarida cha mtandao web newsletter
mawimbi waves
simu za video video calls
kutuma ujumbe to send a message
kupakua to download
kupakia to upload
kuandika to type
kuchapa to print
kutafuta to search
kuvinjari to browse
kuchambua to analyze
kushusha faili to download a file
kuzindua to launch
kutuma barua pepe to send an email
kuweka alama to bookmark
kuwasha to turn on
kuzima to turn off
kubofya to click
kusakinisha to install
kuondoa programu to uninstall
kusasisha to update
kudhibiti to control
kusimba to encrypt
kushirikisha to share
kupiga picha to take a photo
kurekodi to record
kuandika msimbo to code
kusambaza to distribute
kupakua haraka to fast download
kuhifadhi nakala to back up
kufungua jalada to open a file
kufunga jalada to close a file
kuongeza kumbukumbu to add memory
kuhifadhi mtandaoni to save online
kucheza michezo to play games
kusoma habari mtandaoni to read news online
kufanya mkutano wa video to hold a video meeting
kutengeneza roboti to build a robot
kutumia akili bandia to use artificial intelligence
kuzalisha mawimbi to generate waves
kupata maoni to get feedback
kufuatilia to monitor
kuendesha mtambo to operate a machine
kujifunza kwa mtandao to learn online
kuimarisha kasi ya intaneti to boost internet speed
kuunda tovuti to create a website
kuingia mfumo to log in
kutoka kwenye mfumo to log out
kuandika blogu to write a blog
kupata huduma za wingu to access cloud services
kutengeneza video to create a video
kupata msaada wa kiteknolojia to get tech support
kusimamia vifaa to manage devices
kuongeza vipengele to add features
kuhamisha data to transfer data
kufanya kazi ya kidijitali to work digitally

Feelings in Swahili

furaha happiness
upendo love
hasira anger
huzuni sadness
shangwe joy
msisimko excitement
heshima respect
hofu fear
aibu shame
majuto regret
msamaha forgiveness
huruma compassion
hamaki rage
utulivu calm
mashaka doubt
wasiwasi anxiety
ushujaa courage
kujivunia pride
kujuta remorse
kusikitika disappointment
kufurahia to enjoy
kupenda to love
kuchukia to hate
kukasirika to get angry
kusikitisha to sadden
kufariji to comfort
kushangilia to cheer
kushukuru to be grateful
kuhurumia to sympathize
kuomba msamaha to apologize
kusamehe to forgive
kufurahishwa to be delighted
kuogopa to fear
kuheshimu to respect
kujivunia to be proud
kujilaumu to blame oneself
kusumbuliwa to be annoyed
kuvurugika to be confused
kukata tamaa to lose hope
kujawa matumaini to be hopeful
kutuliza mawazo to calm thoughts
kujihisi vizuri to feel good
kujiona mwenye furaha to see oneself happy
kupata faraja to get comfort
kuonyesha upendo to show love
kujuta kwa matendo to regret actions
kufurahia maisha to enjoy life
kupata wasiwasi to get anxious
kupoteza matumaini to lose hope
kuonyesha huruma to show compassion
kusikitisha moyo to sadden the heart
kuongezeka kwa furaha to increase joy
kupunguza huzuni to reduce sadness
kuimarisha matumaini to strengthen hope
kujifunza msamaha to learn forgiveness
kujivunia kazi to be proud of work
kupata aibu to feel ashamed
kutunza heshima to maintain respect
kuonyesha ujasiri to show courage
kupata msukumo to get inspiration
kupoteza amani to lose peace
kujipanga upya to reorganize oneself
kueleza shukrani to express gratitude
kutuliza hasira to calm anger
kushirikiana kwa upendo to cooperate with love
kuimarisha ujasiri to build courage
kupata mashaka to have doubts
kujifunza huruma to learn compassion
kujua kujiheshimu to know self-respect
kutuliza akili to calm the mind
kuonyesha mshangao to show surprise
kusimamia haki to stand for justice
kuelewa hisia to understand feelings
kujihisi mpweke to feel lonely
kuzingatia furaha to focus on happiness
kujifunza kuomba msamaha to learn to apologize
kuondoa mashaka to remove doubts
kushinda wasiwasi to overcome anxiety
kuimarisha upendo to strengthen love
kupata amani to gain peace
kujifunza kuhurumia wengine to learn to empathize with others
kusamehe kwa dhati to forgive sincerely
kuonyesha moyo wa shukrani to show a grateful heart
kuongeza furaha ya maisha to add joy to life
kupunguza majonzi to lessen grief
kuheshimu wengine to respect others
kuonyesha moyo wa ujasiri to show a courageous heart
kufurahia ushindi to enjoy victory
kujali wengine to care for others
kujua furaha ya kweli to know true happiness

EXPAND YOUR KNOWLEDGE

Download our complete Swahili language course below to learn Uzbek in 30 days and never be at a loss for words!

You will receive not only all the contents available on our website in a convenient pdf or epub formats but also additional contents, including additional vocabulary, more grammar structures and exclusive cultural insights with additional vocabulary you won't in any other textbook.

The additional vocabulary includes 200 different topics and more than 15.000 of the most important words, including specific categories like sports, religion, business, professions, nationalities, politics, slang, anatomy, medicine, nature, animals, etc., to allow to speak about any immaginable topic with confidence.