How to Say “Yes” in Shona

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ehe
In Shona, the word for yes is ehe.
ehe is a particle used to indicate agreement or acceptance.
Meaning: word used to indicate agreement or acceptance (particle)

Which one should you use?

While ehe is informal, hongu is the more formal and polite way to say yes in Shona.

Did you know?

  • The particle hongu is not just 'yes', but can also be used at the end of a sentence to mean 'right?' or 'isn't it?' when seeking confirmation.
  • In Shona culture, repeating the word 'yes' several times, such as 'ehe, ehe', can signal deep empathy or intense agreement during a conversation.
  • While hongu is the formal 'yes', using it in a very casual setting with close friends can sometimes be perceived as sarcastic or overly stiff.

Examples in context

  • Ehe, ndinoenda.
    Yes, I am going.
  • Ehe, ndinogona.
    Yes, I can.
  • Ehe, ndinoziva.
    Yes, I know.

Example conversation

Tendai and Kudzai are discussing dinner plans.

  1. Tendai

    Kudzai, unoda kudya manje?
    Kudzai, do you want to eat now?
  2. Kudzai

    Ehe, ndine nzara zvikuru.
    Yes, I am very hungry.
  3. Tendai

    Tinoenda kuchikoro?
    Are we going to the school?
  4. Kudzai

    Ehe, ngatimbofamba.
    Yes, let's go.
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Mae Cassandra
Mae CassandraHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.
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