unanuka
The Swahili phrase for "you stink" is unanuka.
To emphasize how intense the stench is, you can say unanuka vibaya, which means "you stink badly".
What does it mean word for word?
The word unanuka is composed of the subject prefix u- (you), the tense marker -na- (present continuous) and the verb root -nuka (to stink).
Which one should you use?
While unanuka implies a bad smell, adding vibaya to the phrase creates the expression unanuka vibaya to emphasize the intensity of the stench.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form unanuka is used specifically for the singular "you" when addressing one person. To say "you all stink" to a group of people, use the plural form mnanuka.
Did you know?
- The word -nuka can also be used metaphorically to describe a 'stinking' or corrupt situation. It implies that a secret or a scandal has become obvious to everyone.
- Directly saying unanuka to someone can be seen as a major social transgression. In many Swahili-speaking communities, it is more polite to use indirect language or speak about the person in the third person to avoid a direct confrontation.
- The verb root -nuka is used for both foul smells and the scent of perfumes. To specify a pleasant smell, Swahili speakers must add a qualifying word like mazuri for 'good'.
Examples in context
- Unanuka sana leo.You stink a lot today.
- Hivi unanuka?Do you stink?
- Unanuka vibaya sana.You stink very badly.
Example conversation
Juma notices a bad smell coming from Fatuma after she finished her outdoor work.
- JumaFatuma, unanuka sana.Fatuma, you stink a lot.
- FatumaNi kwa sababu nimefanya kazi nje.It is because I have been working outside.
- JumaHaya, nenda kaoge.Okay, go take a bath.
- FatumaSawa, nitafanya hivyo.Okay, I will do that.
