nyarara
The English phrase "shut up" is translated into Shona as nyarara.
nyarara is used as a direct command to tell someone to stop talking. Because it is a direct command, it can be perceived as rude or aggressive depending on the tone of voice you use.
Meaning: "Stop talking." (intj)
Which one should you use?
You can use nyararai to address multiple people at once or to show respect to a single person.
How does it change in a sentence?
The imperative form nyarara can be changed to nyararai to address multiple people or to show respect to one person.
Did you know?
- The word nyarara can be used to describe a person's character, such as someone who is naturally quiet or composed, rather than just a temporary state of silence.
- In Shona culture, using nyarara toward an elder is not just seen as rude but as a significant social transgression, as silence is traditionally expected from the youth in the presence of seniors.
- The root of nyarara is associated with a state of stillness or quietude, and in some contexts, it can describe the eerie silence of a deserted place rather than a command to a person.
Examples in context
- Nyarara, ndinoda kugara zvangu.Shut up, I want to sit in peace.
- Nyarara kana uchida kunzwa.Shut up if you want to listen.
Example conversation
Tinashe and Nyasha are arguing in the living room.
- TinasheNyarara, Nyasha!Shut up, Nyasha!
- NyashaHandinyarari!I will not shut up!
- TinasheUri kuramba uchitaura.You just keep talking.
- NyashaNdinotaura chokwadi.I am telling the truth.
