lengo
The Swahili word for aim is lengo.
lengo is used to describe an intention, purpose or goal. It can refer to abstract concepts, such as a life goal or to a concrete objective or target.
Meaning: intention, purpose (noun)
Which one should you use?
While lengo refers to an intention or purpose, the word shabaha is often used when referring to a physical target or a specific point of aim in sports or shooting.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of lengo is malengo, which translates to aims, goals or purposes.
Did you know?
- The word lengo comes from the verb lenga, which means 'to aim' or 'to target'. Adding the suffix -o transforms the action into a noun representing the object or result of that action.
- The plural malengo is frequently used in East African political and developmental discourse to describe 'strategic objectives' or 'milestones' in national planning.
- In Swahili, the word shabaha can be used as a noun for 'target' or as a verb meaning 'to aim'. While lengo is common for goals, shabaha implies a much higher level of precision and focus.
Examples in context
- Ugunduzi wa ukweli unapaswa kubaki lengo moja la sayansi.The discovery of truth should remain the single aim of science.This sentence shows how to use lengo to describe the purpose of science.Tatoeba #10818570 by ecorralest101, translation #269610 by CM
- Nia yetu ni kuhakikisha upatikanaji wa elimu kwa wote.Our aim is to ensure access to education for everyone.
- Ninakusudia kusoma kwa bidii ili nipate alama nzuri.I aim to study hard to get good grades.
- Nina malengo madogo ya kuboresha ustadi wangu wa kuogelea.I have small aims to improve my swimming skills.
- Ninakusudia kuwa mwalimu bora siku moja.I aim to be a good teacher one day.
- Lengo langu ni kufanikiwa katika biashara.My aim is to succeed in business.
- Tumekusudia kufanya mabadiliko chanya katika jamii yetu.We aim to make positive changes in our community.
- Lengo lake kuu ni kusaidia watoto.His main aim is to help children.
Example conversation
Aisha and Juma are talking about their career goals.
- AishaJuma, lengo lako ni nini mwaka huu?Juma, what is your aim this year?
- JumaLengo langu ni kuanza biashara ndogo.My aim is to start a small business.
- AishaHilo ni lengo zuri sana.That is a very good aim.
- JumaAsante, Aisha.Thank you, Aisha.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries lengo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
