ndza kombela
The Tsonga word for please is ndza kombela.
ndza kombela 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 phrase literally translates to 'I am requesting' or 'I am begging'. It is composed of the subject concord ndza (I) and the verb kombela (to request/beg).
How does it change in a sentence?
The form ndza kombela uses the subject concord ndza (I) and the verb kombela (to request/beg).
Did you know?
- The word kombela can also be used to describe the act of praying, as prayer is viewed as a divine request.
- In many Tsonga-speaking contexts, politeness is expressed more through physical gestures, such as a slight bow or lowering one's gaze, than through the phrase itself.
- If you are asking a person of high status, using the simple 'I am requesting' might actually be considered too direct or insufficiently humble.
Examples in context
- Ndza kombela, ndzi kombela u ndzi pfuna.Please, I am asking you to help me.
- Ndza kombela u ndzi nyika swilo leswi.Please, give me these things.
Example conversation
Ntsiki is asking Tshamuse for help in the kitchen.
- NtsikiNdza kombela ripfula, Tshamuse.Please, give me the salt, Tshamuse.
- TshamuseHansi, ntiyiso hinkwayo.Here it is, of course.
- NtsikiNdza kombela na xitshuri.Please, the spoon too.
- TshamuseI kona la xitshuri.Here is the spoon.
