onge pesa
In Luo, the phrase for "no money" is onge pesa.
The phrase onge pesa is used to describe a state of having no financial resources or funds available. It is a versatile expression commonly used to communicate both the general fact that "there is no money" and the personal statement "I have no money".
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of onge, which means "there is not" or "none" and pesa, which means "money".
How does it change in a sentence?
In this context, pesa acts as an uncountable noun and does not change its form to indicate plurality.
Did you know?
- The word pesa shares the same root as the word for money in several other languages across the Indian Ocean trade network due to historical Arabic influence.
- While onge pesa is a direct statement, Luo speakers often use proverbs or metaphors about hunger or dry seasons to politely imply a lack of funds.
- In traditional Luo settings, wealth was historically measured by cattle rather than 'money', so onge pesa refers specifically to modern currency.
Examples in context
- Ng'at no onge pesa.That person has no money.
Example conversation
Akinyi and Onyango are discussing going to the market.
- AkinyiOnyango, wabe manye chiemo e market?Onyango, shall we look for food at the market?
- OnyangoAkinyi, ok anyalo nikech onge pesa.Akinyi, I cannot because I have no money.
- AkinyiAn bende onge pesa weche.I also have no money, unfortunately.
- OnyangoWanyalo dhi e kinde ibang'a.We can go tomorrow.
