Ndinokuda
The English phrase "I love you" is translated into Shona as Ndinokuda.
Ndinokuda is used as an affirmation of romantic feeling. Because the verb ku-da can also mean "to want", in certain contexts this phrase may also be understood as "I want you".
Meaning: affirmation of romantic feeling (phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
The form Ndinokuda breaks down into Ndi- (I), -no- (present tense marker), -ku- (you/object marker) and -da (love/want).
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb ku-da can also mean to want, so in certain contexts, Ndinokuda can mean I want you.
Did you know?
- In traditional Shona courtship, the formal declaration of love often involves the extended family and the concept of 'roora', making the phrase a communal-facing milestone rather than just a private one.
- Shona is a tonal language, meaning that changing the pitch of the syllables in Ndinokuda can technically alter the meaning or the emphasis of the emotion being conveyed.
- In many traditional Shona households, saying Ndinokuda explicitly can be seen as too forward. Affection is more commonly shown through actions and the provision of care than through spoken declarations.
Examples in context
- Ndinokuda zvakanyanyaI love you very much
- Ndinokuda, mudiwa wangu.I love you, my darling.
Example conversation
A couple is sharing a quiet moment at sunset.
- TendaiFarai, ndinokuda.Farai, I love you.
- FaraiNdinokudawo, Tendai.I love you too, Tendai.
- TendaiNdinokuda zvakanyanya.I love you very much.
- FaraiNdinokutenda nekuda kwako.I thank you for your love.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “I love you” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
