zoba
The Lingala word for "idiot" is zoba.
zoba is a noun used to describe a person of low general intelligence.
Meaning: person of low general intelligence (noun)
Did you know?
- While zoba is a direct insult, it is also frequently used as a term of endearment among very close friends or siblings to describe someone being silly or playful.
- If you use zoba in a formal setting or toward an elder, it is considered a severe social transgression that goes far beyond the English equivalent of 'idiot'.
- The term is often used in popular Congolese music lyrics to describe characters who are easily deceived by lovers, adding a layer of theatricality to the insult.
Examples in context
- Azali zoba.He is an idiot.
- Zoba wana ayebi nini?What does that idiot know?
- Soki ozali zoba, kende.If you are an idiot, leave.
Example conversation
Grace is talking to a patient who is refusing to take his medicine.
- GraceLimbela ngai, kasi ozali zoba.Forgive me, but you are an idiot.
- PatientKioso, mpo ntina nini?What, for what reason?
- GraceOzozela nini mpo omela ekolo?What are you waiting for to take the medicine?
- PatientNgai nayebi oyo nazali kosala.I know what I am doing.
