mbongo
The English word "money" can be translated into Lingala as mbongo or mosolo.
Meaning: currency (noun)
Ways to say it
| Lingala |
|---|
| mbongo |
| mosolo |
mbongo is used to refer to currency or money in a general sense. mosolo is used to describe wealth or riches.
Which one should you use?
While mbongo is the common, everyday term for money, mosolo implies a greater degree of abundance or wealth and refers more specifically to riches.
How does it change in a sentence?
mbongo is a noun that does not change its form for pluralization. The quantity is determined by the context or by accompanying numbers.
Did you know?
- The word mbongo originally referred to the shells of the nzimbu, which served as the primary currency in the Kingdom of Kongo before the arrival of Europeans.
- In some Congolese contexts, talking about mosolo can be seen as boasting or inviting jealousy, so people may use vague terms or gestures to avoid mentioning wealth directly.
- While mbongo is the standard term, street slang in Kinshasa often creates new, ephemeral words for money to keep financial dealings discreet from outsiders.
Examples in context
- Naboyi mbongo na yo.I hate your money.
- Olingi mbongo?Do you want money?
Example conversation
A man and a woman are discussing their finances.
- GuyGrace, ozo linga mbongo?Grace, do you want money?
- GraceEe, Guy, nalingi mbongo.Yes, Guy, I want money.
- GuyMbongo ezali mingi.There is a lot of money.
- GraceSoki ezali, okopesa ngai?If it is there, will you give it to me?
Sources
- Wiktionary, “money” translations and entries mbongo, mosolo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries mbongo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
