kancinci
The English phrase "a little" is translated into Xhosa as kancinci.
kancinci is used to indicate that something is happening to a small extent or degree.
Meaning: to a small extent or degree (adv)
How does it change in a sentence?
As an adverb, kancinci is used to modify verbs or adjectives to indicate the degree of an action or quality.
Did you know?
- The root used in kancinci is also found in words describing the narrowness of a path or a small gap between objects.
- Because Xhosa is a tonal language, the meaning of the root inside kancinci can shift slightly depending on the pitch used by the speaker.
- Depending on the tone and context, kancinci can be used ironically to describe something that is actually quite large or significant.
Examples in context
- Usithetha isiNgesi kancinci.He speaks a little English.This sentence is useful for demonstrating how to use kancinci to modify a verb to show degree.Tatoeba #1766988 by wwkudu, translation #1130858 by jdonnarumma
- Ndicela ukuthetha kancinci.I would like to speak a little.
Example conversation
Zoleka asks Olwethu if he is tired.
- ZolekaUdinwe, Olwethu?Are you tired, Olwethu?
- OlwethuEwe, ndidinwe kancinci.Yes, I am a little tired.
- ZolekaUfuna ukuphumla?Do you want to rest?
- OlwethuEwe, ndicela imizuzu embala.Yes, I would like a few minutes.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
