ngiyacela
The English phrase "please" is translated into Ndebele as ngiyacela.
ngiyacela is used as an interjection to make a polite request.
Meaning: interjection to make a polite request (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The verb ngiyacela is composed of the prefix ngi- (I), the subject concord -ya- (present continuous/emphatic) and the verb stem -cela (ask/request).
Which one should you use?
While ngiyacela is a standard form, the shorter version ngicela is more common in everyday speech to mean "please" or "I request".
How does it change in a sentence?
The form ngicela serves as a more common, shorter version of ngiyacela in everyday speech.
Did you know?
- In Ndebele culture, politeness can involve hlonipha language, where speakers avoid certain sounds entirely to show respect to their elders.
- The verb stem -cela is shared with Zulu, a closely related language. Because the two languages are mutually intelligible, a speaker of Zulu can use their version of 'please' and be perfectly understood by an Ndebele speaker.
- In Ndebele culture, using ngicela is often accompanied by a slight lowering of the head or a subtle bow to show respect to the person being addressed.
Examples in context
- Ngiyakuncenga, hlala phansi kanye.Please, sit down as well.
- Ngiyacela unginike amanzi.Please give me some water.
- Ngiyacela ukukhuluma nawe.Please, I would like to speak with you.
- Ngiyacela ungibuyisele imali yami.Please return my money to me.
Example conversation
A woman is asking a man for a favor at home.
- ThandekaBongani, ngiyacela ungincede.Bongani, please help me.
- BonganiNgicela ukwazi ukuthi udinga ukusiza ngani.I would like to know what you need help with.
- ThandekaNgicela ukuncediswa ngomsebenzi lo.I am asking for help with this work.
- BonganiKulungile, ngizokusiza manje.Alright, I will help you now.
