hamba
To say go away in Zulu, use hamba.
The verb hamba is used to express the action of departing or leaving a place. Using the bare verb hamba as a command is a very direct and can be perceived as rude or blunt depending on tone.
Meaning: to depart or leave a place (verb)
Which one should you use?
While hamba is the basic form, you may use hambani when addressing a group of people or when you wish to use the polite plural to address a single person. For a much more aggressive or dismissive tone equivalent to the English 'get lost!', you can use Suka!
How does it change in a sentence?
The imperative form hambani is used when telling more than one person to go away, or when using the polite plural to address a single person.
Did you know?
- The verb hamba is so central to Zulu culture that it forms the basis of 'hamba kahle', a common way to say 'go well' when someone departs.
- Because Zulu is a tonal language, the meaning and emotion of hamba can shift from a gentle suggestion to a harsh command based solely on pitch.
- In Zulu culture, using the plural hambani for a single person is not just about grammar but is a vital social marker of respect known as 'hlonipha'.
Examples in context
- Ukuphi lapho uya khona? Hamba!Where are you going? Go!
Example conversation
Thulani and Zanele are deciding when to leave a party.
- ThulaniSengifuna ukuhamba.I want to go away now.
- ZaneleHamba, mina ngisazinda.Go away, I am still enjoying myself.
- ThulaniNgizohamba ngedwa?Will I depart alone?
- ZaneleYebo, Thulani, hamba.Yes, Thulani, go away.
