yini
The Zulu word for the English interrogative pronoun "what" is yini.
Using Yini? as a standalone question is a common way to ask for clarification or to express that you did not hear what someone said, much like the English "What?"
Meaning: what? (interrogative pronoun) (pron)
What does it mean word for word?
The form yini is a combination of the subject concord yi-, which refers to the class 9 noun into (meaning "thing") and the interrogative particle -ni (meaning "what"). Literally, it translates to "is what".
Did you know?
- Depending on the tone and context, Yini? can function as an expression of shock or disbelief, similar to the English 'What on earth?!', without adding any extra words.
- The root -ni used in yini is shared across many Bantu languages. This reveals a deep linguistic connection between Zulu and languages spoken thousands of miles away in Central Africa.
- Using Yini? too sharply can sound like a challenge or a demand for explanation rather than a simple request for repetition.
Examples in context
- Yini le?What is this?
- Yini indaba?What is the story?
Example conversation
Mlungisi and Nomalusa are talking about a gift.
- MlungisiNomalusa, yini le isandleni sakho?Nomalusa, what is this in your hand?
- NomalusaYisipho esingena kulo mshado.It is a gift for this wedding.
- MlungisiYini ekaphakathi?What is inside?
- NomalusaYiwashi elisha, Mlungisi.It is a new watch, Mlungisi.
