What does it mean word for word?
The word unasema is composed of three parts: the subject prefix u- (you), the tense marker -na- (present continuous) and the verb stem -sema (speak/say). Literally, the phrase translates to "you-present-say English?"
Which one should you use?
While unasema Kiingereza? is a standard way to ask the question, you might also hear unajua Kiingereza?, which literally means "do you know English?"
How does it change in a sentence?
In Swahili, questions are often formed simply by using the declarative sentence structure with a rising intonation. If you are addressing more than one person, you must change the subject prefix from u- to m-, resulting in mnasema Kiingereza?
When do people say it?
If someone asks you this question, a common and polite response is Ndiyo, nasema kidogo (Yes, I speak a little).
Did you know?
- The prefix Ki- in Kiingereza is a noun class marker used for languages, which is the same class used for tools and objects in many Bantu languages.
- In East Africa, asking unasema Kiingereza? may be seen as redundant in official settings because English is an official language in countries like Kenya and Tanzania.
- The word Kiingereza is a cognate with Chingerezi in Chichewa and Cingelezi in Tumbuka.
Examples in context
- Samahani, unasema Kiingereza?Excuse me, do you speak English?
Example conversation
Zuwena meets a local man at a market.
- ZuwenaHabari, unasema Kiingereza?Hello, do you speak English?
- JumaNdiyo, nasema kidogo.Yes, I speak a little.
- ZuwenaNaweza kupata msaada hapa?Can I get some help here?
- JumaNdiyo Zuwena, nakusaidia.Yes Zuwena, I will help you.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “do you speak english” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Kiingereza, CC BY-SA 4.0.
