ukunuka
The Xhosa verb for "stink" is ukunuka.
ukunuka is used to describe the act of having a strong, unpleasant odor.
Meaning: have a strong bad smell (verb)
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb can be conjugated into the present tense form iyakunuka to mean "it stinks", specifically when referring to a noun from class 9 or 10. To express that something stinks very strongly, you can use the phrase ukunuka kakubi.
Did you know?
- In Xhosa, the root for 'stink' nuka is also used to describe the act of 'smelling' or 'scenting' in a neutral or positive way, depending on the context.
- In Xhosa, if you describe a person as uyakunuka, you are not just commenting on their hygiene, but can also be using a metaphor for someone who is behaving in a way that is socially 'revolting' or 'rotten'.
- To emphasize a particularly offensive odor, Xhosa speakers do not just use adjectives, but often employ reduplication of the verb itself.
Example conversation
Thando and Andiswa are cleaning the kitchen together.
- ThandoAndiswa, iye ukunuka le gubu.Andiswa, this bin stinks.
- AndiswaEwe, kufuneka siliphose ngoku.Yes, we must throw it out now.
- ThandoNdinika iplastiki ncedisa.Give me the plastic bag, please.
- AndiswaNantsi, yiphose ngoko qwalula.Here it is, throw it away immediately.
