kira
The phrase "shut up" in Kikuyu is translated as kira.
kira is used to command someone to stop talking.
Meaning: "Stop talking." (intj)
Did you know?
- In many Kikuyu contexts, saying kira to an elder or a person of high status is not just considered rude, it is viewed as a profound social transgression. Using it requires an extreme level of familiarity or an intentional display of defiance.
- While kira is a direct command, a more subtle way to request silence in a polite setting is to use euphemisms involving 'closing the mouth' or 'resting the tongue'.
- While kira is a direct command, Kikuyu often uses proverbs to suggest silence indirectly, reflecting a cultural preference for avoiding direct confrontation.
Examples in context
- Kira!Shut up!
- Kira na utire.Shut up and be quiet.
Example conversation
Kamau and Wambui are arguing about a secret.
- KamauWambui, kira!Wambui, shut up!
- WambuiAndika kĩrĩa kĩendaga!Write what is happening!
- KamauNdaigua, kira uhoro ucio.I heard, shut up about that matter.
- WambuiNdiga Kira!I won't shut up!
