sema
The Swahili verb for "speak" is sema.
Sema is more commonly used when the focus is on the specific words being uttered (to say) rather than the ability to communicate (to speak).
Meaning: to be able to communicate in a language (verb)
Which one should you use?
While sema means to utter words or say something, zungumza is the preferred verb for the act of speaking or having a conversation.
How does it change in a sentence?
To express the continuous action of speaking a language, Swahili speakers often use the verb zungumza with the present continuous marker -na-, such as in anazungumza (he/she is speaking).
Did you know?
- The verb zungumza is derived from the root zungu, which relates to circling or turning, suggesting that a conversation is a 'circling' of ideas between people.
- In some East African contexts, sema is used as a slang greeting similar to 'what's up' or 'speak your mind'.
- When asking if someone speaks a language, you might use unajua (you know) instead of unazungumza (you speak), as if language is a piece of knowledge.
Examples in context
- Nasema Kiswahili.I speak Swahili.
Example conversation
Omari and Neema meet for the first time at a cafe.
- OmariHabari, unajua sema Kifaransa?Hello, do you speak French?
- NeemaHapana, lakini ninaweza sema Kiingereza.No, but I can speak English.
- OmariHiyo ni nzuri sana, Neema.That is very good, Neema.
- NeemaAsante, Omari.Thank you, Omari.
