methali
The Swahili word for proverb is methali.
A proverb is a phrase that expresses a basic truth. For example, if you want to refer to a good proverb, you would say methali njema.
Meaning: phrase expressing a basic truth (noun)
Did you know?
- In Swahili culture, many methali are not just clever sayings but are used as essential tools for resolving legal and social disputes in traditional settings.
- The word methali is an Arabic loanword, which reflects the deep historical influence of Islamic trade and culture along the Swahili coast.
- In Swahili culture, methali are often used in formal speeches to avoid giving a direct or blunt criticism of someone.
Examples in context
- Asiyefunzwa na mamaye hufunzwa na ulimwengu.One who is not taught by their mother is taught by the world.
- Ukiona cha wenzako cha nyolewa, wewe tia maji.If you see what happens to others, you should learn from it.
- Mkosa mila ni mtumwa.Those who forget their traditions are slaves.
- Methali hii ina maana nzuri.This proverb has a good meaning.
- Walimu wanatufundisha methali nyingi leo.The teachers are teaching us many proverbs today.
- Je, unajua methali ya Kiswahili?Do you know a Swahili proverb?
Example conversation
Bakari and Zuwena are discussing a Swahili lesson.
- BakariZuwena, unajua methali gani leo?Zuwena, which proverb do you know today?
- ZuwenaSijui methali yoyote, Bakari.I don't know any proverb, Bakari.
- BakariNitakufundisha methali moja rahisi.I will teach you one simple proverb.
- ZuwenaAsante, ninafurahi kujifunza.Thank you, I am happy to learn.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “proverb” translations and entries methali, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries methali, CC BY-SA 4.0.
