e
The English word 'at' is translated into Zulu as e.
The preposition e is used to indicate that something is in or very near a particular place.
Meaning: in or very near a particular place (prep)
How does it change in a sentence?
In Zulu, e functions as a prefix that must be attached directly to the noun it modifies.
Did you know?
- The prefix e can sometimes combine with the word for 'home' khaya to create ekhaya, a term that implies not just a physical location but a deep emotional sense of belonging.
- If you are talking about being 'at' a place that is a person's home, the prefix e often merges with noun classes to change the sound of the word, making it sound like a completely different syllable.
- While English uses 'at' for both a house and a city, Zulu often uses different locative markers to distinguish between being 'inside' a building and being 'in the general area' of a town.
Examples in context
- Ngihlangane nomyeni wakho ezitolo.I met your husband at the shops.This sentence shows how to use e to indicate the location of a meeting.Tatoeba #9210322 by Monde, translation #9210324 by Monde
- Imitha ibekwe eqandeni.The meter is set at zero.This sentence demonstrates using e to indicate a specific point on a scale or setting.Tatoeba #9210380 by Monde, translation #9210381 by Monde
- Ngizokubona endlini yakhoI will see you at your house
Example conversation
Nomusa is asking Sipho where he is currently located.
- NomusaUphi, Sipho?Where are you, Sipho?
- SiphoNgisekhaya manje.I am at home now.
- NomusaUngingindela egesitheni?Can you wait for me at the gate?
- SiphoYebo, ngizobe ngilapha.Yes, I will be here.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
