bua le nna
The English phrase "talk to me" is translated into Tswana as bua le nna.
This phrase is used as a request for another person to engage in speech or conversation with the speaker.
Did you know?
- In some contexts, bua can describe the sounds made by livestock, suggesting a linguistic link between human speech and animal communication.
- Because bua le nna is quite direct, using it with an elder without the proper introductory greetings could be interpreted as a lack of 'botho', or the Tswana concept of humanity and respect.
- The verb bua is not only used for speaking but can also refer to the act of negotiating or deliberating in a traditional 'kgotla' village assembly.
Examples in context
- O batla go bua le nna?Do you want to talk to me?
Example conversation
Phenyo wants to discuss a problem with Masego.
- PhenyoMasego, bua le nna jaanana.Masego, talk to me right now.
- MasegoKe a go utlwa, Phenyo.I hear you, Phenyo.
- PhenyoKe tlhoka go bua le wena.I need to talk to you.
- MasegoGo siame, ke a reetsa.Okay, I am listening.
