ngeke
The Zulu word for "never" is ngeke.
Meaning: at no time (adv)
How does it change in a sentence?
ngeke acts as a future negative marker. When used alongside a verb, it functions to mean "will never" or "will not".
Did you know?
- In spoken Zulu, ngeke can be used as a standalone exclamation to shut down a suggestion or request instantly.
- The word ngeke is part of a complex system of concords where the negative marker must align with the subject's class to be grammatically correct.
- Using ngeke carries a sense of impossibility or a refusal of will, rather than just a statement of fact about time.
Examples in context
- Ngeke ngikhohlwe umngani wami.I will never forget my friend.
- Ngeke siphele amandla namuhla.We will never run out of strength today.
Example conversation
Mlungisi and Thandeka are discussing a difficult task.
- MlungisiSizokwazi ukuphetha lo msebenzi?Will we be able to finish this work?
- ThandekaNgeke sikwazi ukwenza lokhu zodwa.We will never be able to do this alone.
- MlungisiSidinga usizo lwabanye?Do we need help from others?
- ThandekaYebo, Mlungisi, sidinga usizo.Yes, Mlungisi, we need help.
