kuhle
The Zulu word for nice is kuhle.
kuhle is used to describe something as attractive, friendly.
Meaning: attractive, friendly (adj)
Which one should you use?
While kuhle means 'nice' in a general sense, mnandi is the specific word used to say something tastes 'nice' or feels 'nice' (like a breeze or a massage).
How does it change in a sentence?
The form kuhle is the adverbial or impersonal form used to describe a situation, an action or a general state of being 'nice'.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Use kuhle to describe how something is done or a general state, but do not use it to describe the taste of food. Use mnandi instead.
Did you know?
- While kuhle describes a general state, the word mnandi (used for 'nice' tastes) is also the word used to describe music that is 'catchy' or has a great beat.
- In Zulu, the root -hle used in kuhle is also the basis for the word for 'beautiful', meaning that 'nice' and 'beautiful' share the same linguistic core.
- In Zulu, the way you say 'it is nice' changes depending on whether you are describing an object or a state of being, due to the complex noun class system.
Examples in context
- Ulimi lwakho luyohlala luhle.Your speech will always be nice/good.
- Uphila ezindaweni ezinhle ngisho!You're living in nice places, for real!
- Umlando wethu uyajabulisa kakhulu.Our history brings us great joy.
- Kuhle kakhulu.It is very nice.
Example conversation
Bandile and Thandeka are looking at a new painting.
- ThandekaBandile, kubukeka kuhle.Bandile, it looks nice.
- BandileYebo, kuhle ngempela.Yes, it is truly nice.
- ThandekaKuhle ukukhetha lokhu.It is nice that you chose this.
- BandileNgiyabonga, Thandeka.Thank you, Thandeka.
