amai
The Shona word for mom is amai.
amai is used to refer to a person's female parent. Beyond biological motherhood, it serves as a polite and respectful title for any woman who is of a similar or older generation than the speaker.
Which one should you use?
While amai refers to a mother, ambuya is the specific term used for a grandmother or a very elderly woman.
How does it change in a sentence?
To say "my mother" in a natural way, you can add the possessive vangu to the word amai, forming the phrase Amai vangu.
Did you know?
- The phrase Amai vangu uses the plural concord vangu because the Shona language uses plural forms to show high respect to elders.
- Using a woman's name without a title like amai in a formal setting can be perceived as a significant social slight or a lack of upbringing.
- In traditional Shona kinship, a paternal aunt may also be addressed as amai to reflect her role in raising the children.
Examples in context
- Amai vangu vari kubasa.My mom is at work.
- Amai vako vanowanikwa kupi?Where is your mom?
Example conversation
Kudzai and Nyasha are talking about their parents.
- KudzaiKo, amai vako vako vapi?So, where is your mom?
- NyashaAmai vangu vari kumusha.My mom is in the village.
- KudzaiVachauya here manga?Will she come tomorrow?
- NyashaHongu, vachauya nemasikati.Yes, she will come in the afternoon.
