usuku
The Xhosa word for "day" is usuku.
usuku refers to a period of 24 hours. To refer to a specific time of day, you may use Isikhathi instead.
Meaning: period of 24 hours (noun)
Did you know?
- If you want to talk about many 'days', you would not just add a plural ending, but would transform the word into eezinsuku through a complex process of prefix and suffix changes.
- Xhosa employs a complex system of noun classes, and usuku belongs to a class that often encompasses time periods and certain natural objects.
- The word usuku is used to refer to both a 'day' and a 'date' on a calendar.
Example conversation
Zoleka and Siyabonga are talking about their work schedules.
- ZolekaSiyabonga, usuku lwakho luhamba njani?Siyabonga, how is your day going?
- SiyabongaLuhamba kakuhle, Zoleka.It is going well, Zoleka.
- ZolekaUyaqhuba usuku lonke?Are you working the whole day?
- SiyabongaEwe, ndisebenza usuku lonke namhlanje.Yes, I am working the whole day today.
