kidogo
In Swahili, the word for little is kidogo.
kidogo is used to describe something that is small in size, but it is most frequently used as an adverb meaning a little or a bit to modify the degree of adjectives or the extent of verbs.
Meaning: small in size (adj)
Which one should you use?
While kidogo can function as an adjective meaning small in size, its most common usage is as an adverb meaning slightly or a little bit.
Did you know?
- In many Swahili-speaking regions, repeating the word as kidogokidogo changes it from 'a little' to 'gradually' or 'little by little', describing a process rather than an amount.
- While kidogo means small, the opposite word kubwa is used not only for large size but also to describe someone of great importance or high social status.
- In Kenya and Tanzania, kidogo kidogo is used as a philosophy for progress, meaning 'little by little' or 'step by step' to describe achieving a goal through patience.
Examples in context
- Ingekuwa bora ikiwa ungenisaidia kidogo.It would have been nice if you'd helped me a little.This sentence shows how to use kidogo to mean a small amount of help.Tatoeba #10889679 by ecorralest101, translation #6870728 by CC
- Kulala kidogo na hivyo tu, niko safi kama daisy.A little nap and, just like that, I'm as fresh as a daisy.This sentence demonstrates using kidogo to refer to a short duration of sleep.Tatoeba #10827298 by ecorralest101, translation #410798 by FeuDRenais
- Kulia kwa nyuki kunanifanya kuwa na wasiwasi kidogo.The buzzing of the bees makes me a little nervous.This sentence illustrates using kidogo to indicate a slight degree of nervousness.Tatoeba #10842373 by ecorralest101, translation #1602341 by human600
- Ninahitaji sukari kidogo tu, tafadhali.I need a little sugar, please.
- Tunahitaji pesa kidogo tu kumalizia.We need a little money to finish.
- Naomba unisaidie kiasi.Please help me a little bit.
- Ninakula kiasi cha matunda kila siku.I eat a little bit of fruits every day.
- 5 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Juma and Zuwena are looking at a puppy in a shop.
- JumaTazama mbwa huyu kidogo!Look at this little dog!
- ZuwenaNi mrembo sana, Juma.He is very beautiful, Juma.
- JumaNataka kununua huyu kidogo.I want to buy this little one.
- ZuwenaUtakusaidia kumtunza, Zuwena?Will you help him take care of it, Zuwena?
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry kidogo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
