kunya
To defecate in Swahili is to kunya.
The term refers to the act of expelling feces from one's bowels.
Meaning: expel feces from one's bowels (verb)
Which one should you use?
While kunya is a blunt way to describe the act, you can use Kujisaidia or Kujisaidia haja kubwa to be more formal. If you wish to express the need more politely, use kupata choo, which translates to 'to use the toilet'.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The word kunya is informal and is considered blunt or vulgar, similar to the English word 'to shit'. For a formal context, use Kujisaidia or Kujisaidia haja kubwa. For a polite approach, use kupata choo.
Did you know?
- Because kunya is so visceral, it is frequently used in Swahili slang and insults to describe someone who is acting cowardly or has 'lost their nerve'.
- The term haja kubwa, used in the formal phrase for defecation, literally translates to 'great need'. In contrast, haja ndogo means 'small need' and refers to urination.
- The polite alternative kujisaidia literally translates to 'to help oneself'. It is a common linguistic strategy in Swahili to use reflexive verbs to soften the impact of bodily functions.
Examples in context
- Mbwa amekuja kunya hapa.The dog has come to defecate here.
- Mnyama huyu anapenda kunya kwenye nyasi.This animal likes to defecate on the grass.
Example conversation
Aisha is telling Bakari about their sick dog.
- AishaBakari, mbwa wetu anaumwa sana.Bakari, our dog is very sick.
- BakariKuna tatizo gani hasa?What exactly is the problem?
- AishaHatuwezi kumzuia kunya kila saa.We cannot stop him from defecating every hour.
- BakariTumpelakishie daktari wa wanyama haraka.Let's take him to the vet quickly.
