Especially if you’re planning a prolonged visit to Kenya, using the correct Swahili numbers for counting in Swahili could be very important! Number systems are the other alphabet in any language. In fact, it is a language all of its own, and it serves a multitude of excellent purposes.

Table of Contents

1. A Brief History of Counting and Number Systems
2. Why is it Important to Learn Swahili Numbers?
3. Learning Swahili Numbers
4. Why Choose SwahiliPod101 to Learn all about Swahili Numbers?

1. A Brief History of Counting and Number Systems

1. The Ishango Bone

The origin of counting, and with it numbers, is not clear to historians. While their art showed that prehistoric man had a concept of numbers, the first indication of a formal system was found to be only between 20,000 and 35,000 thousand years old. This discovery came around 1960 in the form of the so-called Ishango Bone found in the Congo, Central Africa.

The 10cm/4 inch piece of bone was a fibula from a baboon. It showed markings with a neat, unified pattern of small lines – far too organized and sophisticated to have formed spontaneously. Archeologists believe that those thin markings were carved to keep score of, or count, something. The lines seemed to represent a sequence of prime numbers and a series of duplications. Some even called it the first-ever pocket calculator!

2. Mesopotamia and Greece

Yet, evidence suggests that it wasn’t until about 4,000 years ago that humans truly started counting and using numbers. Together with the development of civilization came developed agriculture, and the need for measurement and score-keeping was increased.

For this reason, a formal number system and mathematics were developed first in the Middle East, in what was then called Mesopotamia. Mesopotamia was roughly situated in the area of modern-day Iraq and Kuwait. Allegedly, the system was pretty simple at first. Citizens used tokens that represented a certain number of items, such as one token equalling four goats, etc. This eventually evolved into a system of score marks pressed into clay, which ultimately went on to influence Greek mathematics.

3. Hindu-Arabic Numbers

Zero, meanwhile, was conceived later and elsewhere. Inspired by the Hindu religion, which allows for the concept of infinity and eternity, the Indians invented a symbol to represent nothing. The magic of the zero lies not in itself but its combination with other numbers.

The Indians were also the creators of today’s numbers, which are often referred to as Hindu-Arabic numbers. These comprise one or a combination of just ten symbols or digits: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 0.

Europe learned of this numeric system only around 1200 A.D., when they were introduced to it by an Italian mathematician called Leonardo Pisano Bigollo.

Pisano, also known as Fibonacci, is famous for the discovery of a mathematical sequence with countless applications. Yes, math buffs, it’s the well-known Fibonacci sequence, also called the Golden Mean.

The Roman numeric system, which was clumsy next to the newer inventions, gradually lost popularity in the West. It’s from here that they “slowly spread to conquer the world,” as Steven Law puts it.

2. Why is it Important to Learn Swahili Numbers?

For us at SwahiliPod101, this is an easy question to answer! Because we know that numbers are a global unifier.

Counting and numbers have made our lives easier since they were first formulated, even in their most primitive forms.

Without knowing your numbers, you can’t properly communicate about or deal with the following:

1) Your date/time of birth, i.e., your age: This is vital information to be able to give to people like doctors, employers, law enforcement, and so forth.

2) Banking: Worldwide, our monetary systems are built on numbers. Interest, credit scores, and loans all rely on math beyond simple finger counting.

3) Time: Without knowing how to say numbers, you can’t talk or ask about the time and expect to get a useful response. You don’t want to miss an appointment or schedule something for the wrong hour!

4) Ordering data: Numbers bring order to a mostly random life! Scientists even say that numbers and the way they are organized underpin the whole universe. From using them to count your meals’ calories and the number of likes your posts get on social media, to drawing up intricate data charts and explaining existence itself – numbers are what makes these things possible.

All of the above and more are reasons why it is important to know your numbers if you plan on travelling or becoming a foreign worker abroad, in Kenya or anywhere else!

3. Learning Swahili Numbers

Now, let’s explore the Swahili number system a bit more! Take a look at this infographic.

Can you make out for yourself what the Swahili numbers between one (1) and nine (9) look and sound like? Easy, right?

Or, if you struggled a bit, no problem. Why not listen to how Swahili numbers one (1) through ten (10) sound when pronounced by our native Swahili speaker and friendly SwahiliPod101 teacher?

Then, share with us in the comments your native language’s romanized pronunciation of your number system. We’d love to see all the different ways the same numbers can be pronounced!

When you have mastered the first ten numbers, you have basically nailed the most significant part of the number system. Well done! Curious to learn the numbers from eleven upward? No problem! Why not subscribe and enroll with us now to immediately enjoy this lesson, teaching you all about Swahili numbers eleven (11) to one hundred (100)?

Finally, if you’re curious how the numbers look once you’ve broken one hundred, why not check out our Swahili number vocabulary page? You can see the numbers we’ve just covered, all the way up to four thousand (4,000). Plus, you can also see the Swahili words for different numbers used in example sentences, to get an idea of how you can use them in your day-to-day conversations!

4. Why Choose SwahiliPod101 to Learn all about Swahili Numbers?

SwahiliPod101, like all Innovative Language Learning ventures, takes the pain out of learning a new language by adding a lot of fun. It’s never an easy thing to learn a new language, but we formulated all your lessons so they’re nicely bite-sized, and geared to keep you motivated!

Also, we created a great number of fantastic tools to help keep struggle and boredom out of the learning process.

• Fun and Easy Learning: It’s a commonly-known fact that when learning is made easy and fun, student motivation rises. And as motivation rises, so does the effort to learn – what a beautiful cycle! SwahiliPod101’s language learning system is designed to get you speaking from the onset. Learn at your own convenience and pace with our short, effective, and fun audio podcast lessons. Our Learning Center is comprehensive and state-of-the-art, with a vibrant user community to connect with! Our lessons are recorded with native hosts and voice actors, providing a diverse range of dialects in your lessons. You can be confident that native speakers will understand you when speaking Swahili!
• Innovative Learning Tools and Apps: We make it our priority to offer you the best learning tools! These include apps for iPhone, iPad, Android, and Mac OSX; eBooks for Kindle, Nook, and iPad; audiobooks; Roku TV and so many more. This means that we took diverse lifestyles into account when we developed our courses, so you can learn anywhere, anytime on a device of your choice. How innovative!
• Free Resources: Sharing is caring, and for this reason, we share many free resources with our students. For instance, start learning Swahili with our basic online course by creating a lifetime account – for free! Also get free daily and iTunes lessons, free eBooks, free mobile apps, and free access to our blog and online community. Or how about free Vocabulary Lists? The Swahili dictionary is for exclusive use by our students, also for free. There’s so much to love about SwahiliPod101…!
• Live Hosts and One-on-One Learning: Knowledgeable, energetic hosts present recorded video lessons, and are available for live teaching experiences if you upgrade. This means that in the videos, you get to watch them pronounce those tongue-twisters as if you’re learning live! Add octane to your learning by upgrading to Premium Plus, and learn two times faster. You can have your very own Swahili teacher always with you, ensuring that you learn what you need, when you need to – what a wonderful opportunity to master a new language in record time!
• Start Where You Are: You don’t know a single Swahili word? Not to worry, we’ve absolutely got this. Simply enroll in our Absolute Beginner Pathway and start speaking from Lesson 1! As your learning progresses, you can enroll in other pathways to match your Swahili level, at your own pace, in your own time, in your own place!

So, why wait? Sign up with SwahiliPod101 right away! Also, let us know in the comments if you’ve used this blog post, or any of the free lessons anywhere to master Swahili numbers. Or, even better – share your birthdate using what you’ve learned!

Learn how to apologize in Swahili – fast and accurately! SwahiliPod101 makes it easy for you to make amends. Start with a bonus, and download your FREE cheat sheet – How to Improve Your Swahili Skills! (Logged-In Member Only)

Table of Contents

1. Common Ways to Say Sorry in Swahili
2. How To Refuse Something Politely in Swahili
3. Audio Lesson – Survival Phrases “How to Say Sorry”
4. Why You Will NOT Be Sorry For Learning Swahili through SwahiliPod101

1. Common Ways to Say Sorry in Swahili

Nobody’s perfect, not anywhere in the world. Everybody makes mistakes, and does and says regrettable things. Then it’s time to apologize, as saying ‘I’m sorry’ is not in vain. It can be very healing! Did you know that hearing a sincerely-meant apology can have a noticeable effect on a person’s body? Research has shown that it slows down breathing and heart rate, and even causes a drop in blood pressure.

Sometimes we cannot fix what’s broken, but we can make the experience a bit easier for anyone who suffered on account of our thoughtless actions or words.

Here are a number of ways to say sorry in Swahili. In any language, just make sure you really mean it! An insincere apology will not go down well with anyone.

Samahani.
I’m sorry

These words should precede anything else you have to say. Use them sincerely and whenever you are clearly in the wrong. Acknowledging your guilt and apologizing for any wrongdoing will lift your spirits too! Often, remorse can eat away at us, and a simple ‘I’m sorry’, in Swahili or any other language, can open the door for forgiveness and resolution of a bad situation. It can be a true gift!

Ningependa kuomba msamaha.
I would like to apologize.

This is a slightly more formal way to say ‘I’m sorry’ in Swahili. Use this phrase if you’re addressing your superiors and/or elders.

Mimi kwa dhati naomba msamaha.
I sincerely apologize.

If you feel strongly about your apology, this is another slightly more formal phrase to use. Keep it handy for graver errors, or you might come across as insincere!

Sitafanya hivyo tena.
I won’t do it again.

A promise you can only make if you intend to keep it! Few things feel as bad as having to hear repeated apologies from someone for the same behavior – it means the ‘sorry’ is not sincere. Don’t be that person!

Nitahakikisha sitafanya makosa hii tena.
I’ll make sure not to make this mistake again.

A beautifully strong phrase! Again, say this only if you mean it – not just in the moment, but always! A bit more formal, this is an especially good phrase to use when apologizing to superiors and/or elders. It will make an especially good impression at the workplace, where accountability is an excellent quality to display!

Sikumaanisha hivyo.
I didn’t mean that.

This is a tricky one… What did you mean, then?! Clear up any confusion with sincerity. Also, use this phrase only if the harm done or mistake made was due to an accident, and then admit to thoughtlessness on your part, if appropriate.

Ni kosa langu.
It’s my fault.

If the fault is really yours, own up to it. You will gain respect in the eyes of others! However, don’t take the blame when it’s not truly yours. It won’t be good for you, and ultimately you will not be respected much for it.

Samahani kwa kuwa na ubinafsi.
I’m sorry for being selfish.

This is a good phrase to keep handy, especially for your close relationships. It is difficult to admit you’re selfish, isn’t it?! However, it’s good to know when to be honest. We get used to our loved ones, which often means we forget that they need our good manners and unselfish behavior just as much as strangers do.

Natumai umenisamehe mimi.
I hope you will forgive me.

This is a polite and gentle wish that can smooth over many harsh feelings. It also shows that the other person’s opinion and forgiveness are important to you.

Nachukua jukumu kamili.
I take full responsibility.

This strong statement is similar to admitting that an error or transgression was your fault. It speaks of courage and the willingness to take remedial action. Good one to use…if you mean it!

Singefanya hayo.
I shouldn’t have done it.

This phrase is fine to use if you did or said something wrong. It shows, to an extent, your regret for having done or said what you did, and demonstrates that you understand your role in the mistake.

Pole kwa ajili ya kukurudishia pesa yako kama nimechelewa.
Sorry for giving your money back late.

It’s rotten to have to loan money! Yet, it’s equally rotten to have to ask for the repayment of a loan. So, do your best not to pay late in the first place, but if it can’t be helped, this would be a good phrase to use!

Tafadhali usinikasirikie mimi.
Please don’t be mad at me.

Well, this is not a very advisable phrase to use if you are clearly in the wrong. If someone is justifiably angry with you, asking them not to be mad at you would be an unfair expectation. However, if you did something wrong by accident, and if the consequences were not too serious, this request would be OK.

Pole nimechelewa.
Sorry I’m late.

Punctuality is valued in most situations, but if you really cannot help being late, then apologize! This way you show respect for your host, and win their approval.

Samahani kwa kuwa mbaya kwako.
I apologize for being mean to you.

Acknowledging your own meanness towards someone is no small thing, so good for you! Use this apology only if your intention is to seriously address your mean tendencies, or these words could become meaningless over time.

2. How To Refuse Something Politely in Swahili

Congratulations! Now you know how to apologize in Swahili! After you have apologized for a mistake, focus on fixing whatever you can, and don’t punish yourself over something that cannot be taken back or reversed. That’s healthy for you! Regret can eat away at the soul, and even destroy it. It is ultimately a useless emotion if it consumes you.

However, in language, we use apologies not only when we’ve transgressed or made mistakes. They come in handy in other situations too, when there has been no wrongdoing. Sometimes we need to express regret for having to refuse a gift, an offer, or an invitation. This can be somewhat tricky. Learn from specialists at SwahiliPod101 about how to use the correct Swahili words for this kind of ‘sorry’!

3. Survival Phrases “How to Say Sorry”

On the run and need a quick lesson on how to say sorry in Swahili? Don’t fret, just listen and repeat! Click here for a recorded short lesson and learn how to give the perfect apology, with perfect pronunciation in Swahili. A little can go a long way, and you will sound like a native!

4. Why You Will NOT Be Sorry For Learning Swahili through SwahiliPod101

Online learning is here to stay, that’s a fact. In 2015, the Digital Learning Compass Partnership released a report based on surveys to determine online enrollment trends in US institutions for higher education. Thirty percent of all their students learned online! And the number is growing! However, how can you be sure you will not regret your choice of an online language learning school? First, look at the school’s credentials and what it has to offer…

• Fun and Easy Learning: It’s a commonly-known fact that when learning is made easy and fun, student motivation rises. And as motivation rises, so does the effort to learn – what a beautiful cycle! SwahiliPod101’s language learning system is designed to get you speaking from the onset. Learn at your own convenience and pace with our short, effective and fun audio podcast lessons. Our Learning Center is comprehensive and state-of-the-art, with a vibrant user community to connect to! Our lessons are recorded with native hosts and voice actors, providing a diverse range of dialects in your lessons. You can be confident that native speakers will understand you when speaking Swahili!
• Innovative Learning Tools and Apps: We make it our priority to offer you the best learning tools! These include apps for iPhone, iPad, Android and Mac OSX; eBooks for Kindle, Nook, and iPad; audiobooks; Roku TV and so many more. This means that we took diverse lifestyles into account when we developed our courses, so you can learn anywhere, anytime on a device of your choice. How innovative!
• Free Resources: Sharing is caring, and for this reason, we share many free resources with our students. For instance, start learning Swahili with our basic online course by creating a lifetime account – for free! Also get free daily and iTunes lessons, free eBooks, free mobile apps, and free access to our blog and online community. Or how about free Vocabulary Lists? The Swahili dictionary is for exclusive use by our students, also for free. There’s so much to love about SwahiliPod101…!
• Live Hosts and One-on-One Learning: Knowledgeable, energetic hosts present recorded video lessons, and are available for live teaching experiences if you upgrade. This means that in the videos, you get to watch them pronounce those tongue-twisters, as if you’re learning live! Add octane to your learning by upgrading to Premium Plus, and learn two times faster. Your can have your very own Swahili teacher always with you, ensuring that you learn what you need, when you need to – what a wonderful opportunity to master a new language in record time!
• Start Where You Are: You don’t know a single Swahili word? Not to worry, we’ve absolutely got this. Simply enroll in our Absolute Beginner Pathway and start speaking from Lesson 1! As your learning progresses, you can enroll in other pathways to match your Swahili level, at your own pace, in your own time, in your own place!

After this lesson, you will know almost every ‘sorry for’ in Swahili, but don’t let it be that you’re sorry for missing a great opportunity. Learning a new language can only enrich your life, and could even open doors towards great opportunities! So don’t wonder if you’ll regret enrolling in SwahiliPod101. It’s the most fun, easy way to learn Swahili!

Start off the year by learning how to introduce yourself properly in Swahili! Learn easily with SwahiliPod101 in this four-minute video!

Table of Contents

1. 10 Lines You Need for Introducing Yourself in Swahili
2. Important Tips for Introducing Yourself
3. Video – How to Introduce Yourself in Swahili
4. Why SwahiliPod101 is Perfect for Learning all about Swahili Introductions

1. 10 Lines You Need for Introducing Yourself in Swahili

First impressions are absolutely everything! Right? No, wrong – who you are every day is much more important. But first impressions are definitely not unimportant either. Make sure to introduce yourself correctly, as it could mean the difference between getting a job offer or a polite refusal from an employer. SwahiliPod101 shows you how to read, write and pronounce these self-introductions and conversation-starters like a native speaker!

But first, a tip – wait to be asked before offering personal details such as your age. Good conversation is about unspoken reciprocity, and giving too many personal details too soon can be embarrassing for your Kenyan friend. Rather use phrases that encourage your friend to talk about him or herself – most people like doing that! Also, it shows you take real interest in other people.

1- Hello, it’s nice to meet you.

Hello, ni vyema kukutana na wewe.

This phrase is an excellent way to start an introduction. It is a greeting that immediately expresses interest in the other person.

2- My name is Sharon.

Jina langu ni Sharon.

Self-explanatory – just replace ‘Kevin’ with your own name! Also, pay close attention to what your new Kenyan acquaintance’s name is. Remembering it will make them feel that you are really interested in him/her as a person!

3- I’m from Kenya.

Mimi natoka Kenya.

Sharing something about yourself is a nice conversation starter. It shows that you’re willing to engage meaningfully with the other person. In an informal setting, you can expect the other person to respond in kind. At work, this is probably information you need to volunteer only if asked. Again, remember to replace ‘Kenya’ with your own country of birth!

4- I live in Nairobi.

Ninaishi Nairobi.

Same as above – replace ‘Nairobi’ with your town or city of abode!

5- I’ve been learning Swahili for a year.

Nimekuwa nikijifunza Kiswahili kwa mwaka mmoja.

Say this only if it’s true, obviously. And prepare to dazzle your audience! If you have indeed worked faithfully at your Swahili for a year, you should be pretty good at it! Use this phrase after your introduction – it is likely to indicate that you wish to engage in Swahili conversation.

6- I’m learning Swahili at SwahiliPod101.com.

Ninajifunza Kiswahili katika SwahiliPod101.com.

This will be the best reply if anyone asks (Very impressed, of course!) where you study Swahili! Simply volunteering this information, especially in a casual conversation, could make you sound like a salesperson, and you want to avoid that. Often, an employer will want this information though, so best to memorize and have this phrase handy!

7- I’m 27 years old.

Nina umri wa miaka ishirini na saba.

This is a line that may just get you a ‘TMI!’ look from a stranger if you volunteer it without being asked. He/she may not be willing to divulge such an intimate detail about him/herself right at the start of your acquaintance, so don’t force reciprocity. However, it’s a good phrase to know in a job interview; again, probably best only if your prospective Kenyan employer asks. Also, remember to give your true age!

8- I’m a teacher.

Mimi ni mwalimu.

You’re still offering information about yourself, which lends good momentum to keep the conversation going! Replace ‘teacher’ with your own occupation – and learn the related vocabulary with SwahiliPod101!

9- One of my hobbies is reading.

Moja ya kozi yangu ni kusoma.

Your hobby is another topic with lots of potential for starting a good conversation! People are often eager to talk about their hobbies, and why they like them!

10- I enjoy listening to music.

Napenda kusikiliza muziki.

If you’re still talking about your hobbies, this would be a good line to go with the previous one. Otherwise, wait for your conversation partner to start talking about what they enjoy doing!

2. Important Tips for Introducing Yourself

A correct Swahili introduction will make a good impression upon meeting a person for the first time. Why is this first impression important? Simple – it gives an indication of who you are as a person. So, while you want to be truthful when representing yourself, you also need to be prepared to put your best foot forward!

First impressions are often lingering and difficult to change. In addition, it’s easier to make a negative impression than a good one, often without intending to. So, how can you make sure that your self-introduction will impress Kenyan natives?

1- Research: First, research the culture! Different cultures have different social rules, and you will be halfway towards making a great first impression if you know the proper Kenyan customs for self-introductions. It will also help you avoid social mistakes – sometimes, what is acceptable in one culture is insulting in another, such as making eye contact, or giving a handshake. In your culture, what is appropriate when a person introduces him or herself?

Also, be sure to distinguish between introductions in different situations, such as a formal and a social situation. There are bound to be differences in how you address people! The internet can be an important tool for this endeavor. Alternatively, you could visit your local library to search for books on this topic, or you could ask Kenyan friends to explain and demonstrate their cultural habits for introductions. Honoring someone’s culture shows that you respect it, and as we know – a little respect can go a very long way in any relationship!

2- Study the Correct Phrases and Vocabulary: Be sure to learn Swahili phrases and vocabulary that tell people who you are, and that encourage them to engage in conversation with you. Each situation will determine how to address the person you want to introduce yourself to. Also, make sure your pronunciation is correct! It would be most valuable to have Swahili-speaking friends who can help you with this. Or read on for a quick phrase and video lesson on Swahili introductions right here at SwahiliPod101!

3- Appearance: This is pretty obvious – if you want to make a good impression introducing yourself to anyone for the first time, you need to be neatly dressed and well groomed! A shabby, dirty or careless appearance and bad body odor are to be avoided at all costs; in most cultures, these will not impress!

Also, make sure to dress appropriately, not only for the occasion, but also for the culture. For instance, bare shoulders or an open-necked shirt is an acceptable gear in many Western countries. Yet, in some cultures, dressing like this could deeply offend your host. No amount of good manners and properly expressed introductions is likely to wipe out a cultural no-no! So, be sure to know how to dress, and take care with your appearance when you are about to introduce yourself to someone for the first time!

Following are some neat phrases with which you can introduce yourself in Swahili, and get a conversation started too!

3. Video – How to Introduce Yourself in Swahili

Good, you read and perhaps even memorized the preceding phrases to successfully introduce yourself in Swahili! Watch this short video now to get a quick lesson on Swahili grammar for these introductions, as well as how to pronounce them correctly. You will sound like a native when you can copy the presenter perfectly!

4. Why SwahiliPod101 is Perfect for Learning all about Swahili Introductions

• Culturally Focused Lessons: All our material is aimed not only to help you learn perfect Swahili, but also to introduce you to the Kenyan culture! Learn here, for instance, a list of favorite Kenyan foods. Or, how about exploring the Kenyan business culture in these 12 introductory lessons? Alternatively, listen to these audio lessons on Kenyan culture! Studying through us could be very valuable before visiting Kenya for any purpose.
• Accurate and Correct Pronunciation & Inflection: Our hosts and voice actors are native Swahili speakers of the best quality! It is important for us that you speak Swahili correctly to avoid embarrassing misunderstandings and miscommunications. If you practice and can copy these presenters well, you will sound just like Swahili natives and your introduction will be easily understood!
• State-of-the-Art Lesson Formats and Methods: Efficacy in learning is our highest priority. You will have access to learning tools that were carefully developed by learning specialists over more than a decade! We use only well-researched, proven lesson formats and teaching methods to ensure fast, accurate, fun and easy learning! Millions of happy subscribers can’t be wrong! Create a lifetime account with SwahiliPod101 for free access to many learning tools that are updated every week.
• Learn to Read and Write in Swahili: We don’t only teach you to speak, you can also learn to read and write in Swahili! This way you can express your Swahili introduction in more than one way and be thoroughly prepared.
• A Learning Plan that Suits your Pocket: SwahiliPod101 takes pride in making learning not only easy and fun, but also affordable. Opening a lifetime account for free will offer you a free seven-day trial, after which you can join with an option that suits your needs and means. Learning Swahili has never been easier or more affordable! Even choosing only the ‘Basic’ option will give you access to everything you need to learn Swahili effectively, like thousands of audio and video lessons! However, if you need to learn Swahili fast, the Premium and Premium Plus options will be good to consider, as both offer a vast number of extra tools to ensure efficient learning. This way you can be sure that you will reach your learning goal easily!

Whatever your needs are for learning Swahili, make sure to do it through SwahiliPod101, and you will never have to google: “How do I introduce myself in Swahili” again!

Do you often feel lonely and sad? Do you long for romance and are willing to do whatever it takes to meet that special person? Speaking another language could revolutionize your love life! So, why wait? Learning how to say ‘love’ in Swahili could be just what you need to find it.

Or perhaps you were lucky, and have found your Swahili partner already. Fantastic! Yet, a cross-cultural relationship comes with unique challenges. Learning how to speak your lover’s language will greatly improve your communication and enhance the relationship. At SwahiliPod101, our team will teach you all the words, quotes and phrases you need to woo your Swahili lover with excellence! Our tutors provide personal assistance, with plenty of extra material available to make Swahili dating easy for you.

Table of Contents

1. Common Phrases You’ll Need for a Date
2. The Most Romantic Ideas for a Date
3. Must-know Valentine’s Day Vocabulary
4. Swahili Love Phrases for Valentine’s Day
5. Swahili Quotes about Love
6. Marriage Proposal Lines
7. 15 Most Common Break-Up Lines
8. Will Falling in Love Help You Learn Swahili Faster?

Start with a bonus, and download the ‘How To be a Good Lover Cheat Sheet’ for FREE! (Logged-In Member Only)

1. Common Phrases You’ll Need for a Date

So, you have met your Swahili love interest. Congratulations! Who knows where this could take you…?! However, the two of you have just met and you’re not ready to say the Swahili word for love just yet. Great, it is better to get to know him/her first. Wow your prospective love by using these Swahili date phrases to set up a spectacular first date.

Would you like to go out to dinner with me?

• Je, ungependa kwenda nje kwa chakula cha jioni na mimi?

The important question! In most cultures, this phrase indicates: ‘I’m romantically interested in you’. Flirting in Swahili is no different, so don’t take your date to Mcdonald’s!

Are you free this weekend?

• Je, uko na muda mwishoni mwa wiki hii?

This is a preamble to asking your love interest on a date. If you get an immediate ‘Yes’, that’s good news!

Would you like to hang out with me?

• Je, ungetaka kukaa nje na mimi?

You like her/him, but you’re not sure if there’s chemistry. Ask them to hang out first to see if a dinner date is next.

What time shall we meet tomorrow?

• Ni wakati upi tutakutana kesho?

Set a time, and be sure to arrive early! Nothing spoils a potential relationship more than a tardy date.

Where shall we meet?

• Tutakutana wapi?

You can ask this, but also suggest a place.

You look great.

• Wewe unapendeza.

A wonderful ice breaker! This phrase will help them relax a bit – they probably took great care to look their best just for you.

You are so cute.

• Wewe ni mrembo.

If the two of you are getting on really well, this is a fun, flirtatious phrase to use.

What do you think of this place?

• Unafikiri nini juu ya eneo hili?

This another good conversation starter. Show off your Swahili language skills!

Can I see you again?

• Naweza kukuona tena?

So the date went really well – don’t waste time! Make sure you will see each other again.

Shall we go somewhere else?

• Je, twende mahali pengine?

If the place you meet at is not great, you can suggest going elsewhere. It is also a good question to follow the previous one. Variety is the spice of life!

I know a good place.

• Najua pahali pazuri.

Use this with the previous question. However, don’t say if you don’t know a good place!

I will drive you home.

• Mimi nitakuendesha na gari hadi nyumbani.

If your date doesn’t have transport, this is a polite, considerate offer. However, don’t be offended if she/he turns you down on the first date. Especially a woman might not feel comfortable letting you drive her home when the two of you are still basically strangers.

That was a great evening.

• Hiyo ilikuwa ni jioni ya kupendeza.

This is a good phrase to end the evening with.

When can I see you again?

• Ni lini naweza kukuona tena?

If he/she replied ‘Yes’ to ‘Can I see you again?’, this is the next important question.

I’ll call you.

• Mimi nitakupigia simu.

Say this only if you really mean to do it. In many cultures, this could imply that you’re keeping the proverbial backdoor open.

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2. The Most Romantic Ideas for a Date

You learned all the Swahili phrases to make a date – congratulations! Now you have to decide where to meet, which can be tricky. Discuss these options with your lover to gauge whether you like the same things. Check out romantic date ideas in Swahili below!

museum

• makumbusho

If you’re looking for unique date ideas that are fun but won’t break the bank, museums are the perfect spot! You won’t be running out of things to say in the conversations.

candlelit dinner

• Chakula cha jioni kukiwemo msumaa uliowashwa.

A candlelit dinner is perhaps best to reserve for when the relationship is getting serious. It’s very intimate, and says: “Romance!” It’s a fantastic choice if you’re sure you and your date are in love with each other!

go to the zoo

• kwenda kwa mbuga la wanyama

This is a good choice for shy lovers who want to get the conversation going. Just make sure your date likes zoos, as some people dislike them. Maybe not for the first date, but this is also a great choice if your lover has children – you’ll win his/her adoration for inviting them along!

go for a long walk

• kwenda kwa matembezi refu

Need to talk about serious stuff, or just want to relax with your date? Walking together is soothing, and a habit you can keep up together always! Just make sure it’s a beautiful walk that’s not too strenuous.

go to the opera

• kwenda opera

This type of date should only be attempted if both of you love the opera. It can be a special treat, followed by a candlelit dinner!

go to the aquarium

• kwenda akuariam

Going to the aquarium is another good idea if you need topics for conversation, or if you need to impress your lover’s kids! Make sure your date doesn’t have a problem with aquariums.

walk on the beach

• kutembea pwani

This can be a very romantic stroll, especially at night! The sea is often associated with romance and beauty.

have a picnic

• kuwa na piknik

If you and your date need to get more comfortable together, this can be a fantastic date. Spending time in nature is soothing and calms the nerves.

cook a meal together

• kupika chakula pamoja

If you want to get an idea of your date’s true character in one go, this is an excellent date! You will quickly see if the two of you can work together in a confined space. If it works, it will be fantastic for the relationship and create a sense of intimacy. If not, you will probably part ways!

have dinner and see a movie

• kula chakula cha jioni na kuona sinema

This is traditional date choice works perfectly well. Just make sure you and your date like the same kind of movies!

3. Must-know Valentine’s Day Vocabulary

Expressing your feelings honestly is very important in any relationship all year round. Yet, on Valentine’s Day you really want to shine. Impress your lover this Valentine’s with your excellent vocabulary, and make his/her day! We teach you, in fun, effective ways, the meanings of the words and how to pronounce them. You can also copy the characters and learn how to write ‘I love you’ in Swahili – think how impressed your date will be!

4. Swahili Love Phrases for Valentine’s Day

So, you now have the basic Valentine’s Day vocabulary under your belt. Well done! But, do you know how to say ‘I love you’ in Swahili yet? Or perhaps you are still only friends. So, do you know how to say ‘I like you’ or ‘I have a crush on you’ in Swahili? No? Don’t worry, here are all the love phrases you need to bowl over your Swahili love on this special day!

I love you.

• Nakupenda.

Saying ‘I love you’ in Swahili carries the same weight as in all languages. Use this only if you’re sure and sincere about your feelings for your partner/friend.

You mean so much to me.

• Una maanisha mengi sana kwangu.

This is a beautiful expression of gratitude that will enhance any relationship! It makes the receiver feel appreciated and their efforts recognized.

Will you be my Valentine?

• Je, utakuwa Valentine wangu?

With these words, you are taking your relationship to the next level! Or, if you have been a couple for a while, it shows that you still feel the romance. So, go for it!

You’re so beautiful.

• Wewe ni mrembo sana.

If you don’t know how to say ‘You’re pretty’ in Swahili, this is a good substitute, gentlemen!

I think of you as more than a friend.

• Nakufikiria sana kama zaidi ya rafiki.

Say this if you are not yet sure that your romantic feelings are reciprocated. It is also a safe go-to if you’re unsure about the Swahili dating culture.

A hundred hearts would be too few to carry all my love for you.

• Mioyo mia itakuwa chache sana kubeba upendo wangu wote kwako.

You romantic you…! When your heart overflows with love, this would be the best phrase to use.

Love is just love. It can never be explained.

• Upendo ni upendo tu. Haiwezi kuelezwa.

If you fell in love unexpectedly or inexplicably, this one’s for you.

You’re so handsome.

• Unasura nzuri sana.

Ladies, this phrase lets your Swahili love know how much you appreciate his looks! Don’t be shy to use it; men like compliments too.

I’ve got a crush on you.

• Nimekupenda.

If you like someone, but you’re unsure about starting a relationship, it would be prudent to say this. It simply means that you like someone very, very much and think they’re amazing.

You make me want to be a better man.

• Unanifanya nataka kuwa mwanamume bora.

Gentlemen, don’t claim this phrase as your own! It hails from the movie ‘As Good as it Gets’, but it is sure to make your Swahili girlfriend feel very special. Let her know that she inspires you!

Let all that you do be done in love.

• Wacha yote unayofanya, ufanye kwa upendo.

We hope.

You are my sunshine, my love.

• Wewe ni mwanga wangu, upendo wangu.

A compliment that lets your lover know they bring a special quality to your life. Really nice!

Words can’t describe my love for you.

• Maneno hayawezi kueleza upendo wangu kwako.

Better say this when you’re feeling serious about the relationship! It means that your feelings are very intense.

We were meant to be together.

• Tunakusudiwa tuwepamoja.

This is a loving affirmation that shows you see a future together, and that you feel a special bond with your partner.

If you were thinking about someone while reading this, you’re definitely in love.

• Kama unafikiri kuhusu mtu unaposoma hii, hakika uko kwa penzi.

Here’s something fun to tease your lover with. And hope he/she was thinking of you!

5. Swahili Quotes about Love

You’re a love champ! You and your Swahili lover are getting along fantastically, your dates are awesome, your Valentine’s Day together was spectacular, and you’re very much in love. Good for you! Here are some beautiful phrases of endearment in Swahili that will remind him/her who is in your thoughts all the time.

6. Marriage Proposal Lines

Wow. Your Swahili lover is indeed the love of your life – congratulations! And may only happiness follow the two of you! In most traditions, the man asks the woman to marry; this is also the Swahili custom. Here are a few sincere and romantic lines that will help you to ask your lady-love for her hand in marriage.

7. 15 Most Common Break-Up Lines

Instead of moving towards marriage or a long-term relationship, you find that the spark is not there for you. That is a pity! But even though breaking up is never easy, continuing a bad or unfulfilling relationship would be even harder. Remember to be kind to the person you are going to say goodbye to; respect and sensitivity cost nothing. Here are some phrases to help you break up gently.

8. Will Falling in Love help you Learn Swahili faster?

Most people will agree that the above statement is a no-brainer – of course it will! Your body will be flooded with feel-good hormones, which are superb motivators for anything. SwahiliPod101 is one of the best portals to help help make this a reality, so don’t hesitate to enroll now! Let’s quickly look at the reasons why falling in love will speed up your learning of the Swahili language.

Three Reasons Why Having a Lover will Help you Learn Swahili Faster!

1- Being in a love relationship with your Swahili speaking partner will immerse you in the culture
SwahiliPod101 uses immersive methods and tools to teach you Swahili, but having a relationship with a native speaker will be a very valuable addition to your learning experience! You will gain exposure to their world, realtime and vividly, which will make the language come alive even more for you. The experience is likely to expand your world-view, which should motivate you to learn Swahili even faster.

2- Having your Swahili romantic partner will mean more opportunity to practice speaking
Nothing beats continuous practice when learning a new language. Your partner will probably be very willing to assist you in this, as your enhanced Swahili language skills will enhance the relationship. Communication is, after all, one of the most important pillars of a good partnership. Also, you will get to impress your lover with the knowledge gained through your studies – a win/win situation!

3- A supportive Swahili lover is likely to make a gentle, patient teacher and study aid!
With his/her heart filled with love and goodwill for you, your Swahili partner is likely to patiently and gently correct your mistakes when you speak. This goes not only for grammar, but also for accent and meaning. With his/her help, you could sound like a native in no time!

Three Reasons Why SwahiliPod101 helps you learn Swahili Even Faster when you’re In Love

Start with a bonus, and download the ‘How To be a Good Lover Cheat Sheet’ for FREE! (Logged-In Member Only)

1- All the Resources and Materials Will Help Both of You
Falling in love with a man or woman speaking Swahili is an opportunity for both of you to learn a new language! For this reason, every lesson, transcript, vocabulary list, and resource at SwahiliPod101 is translated into both English and Swahili. So, while your partner can help you learn Swahili faster, you can potentially also help him/her learn and master English!

2- Lessons Are Designed to Help You Understand and Engage with Swahili Culture
At SwahiliPod101, our focus is to help our students learn practical vocabulary and phrases used by everyday people in Kenya. This means that, from your very first lesson, you can apply what you learn immediately! So, when your Swahili partner wants to go out to a restaurant, play Pokemon Go, or attend just about any social function, you have the vocabulary and phrases necessary to have a great time!

3- Access to Special Resources Dedicated to Romantic Swahili Phrases
You now have access to SwahiliPod101’s specially-developed sections and tools to teach you love words, phrases, and cultural insights to help you find and attract your Swahili soul mate. A personal tutor will assist you to master these brilliantly – remember to invite him/her to your wedding!

So, you’re heading for Kenya to travel or work. Awesome! You’re in for an amazing adventure! It’s a beautiful country, steeped in a rich culture that may be very unlike your own.

However, showing respect to the locals is a big deal in every country around the world. A respectful manner and attitude could open doors for you that would otherwise remain mystifyingly closed. Aside from just knowing ‘Thank you’ in Swahili, greeting someone correctly in Swahili could incline a local to treat you more favorably than otherwise! So, the clever thing to do would be to learn Swahili greetings before you embark on your journey. Swahili greetings are different from other languages and probably not what you’d expect. But if learning how to say ‘Hello!’ in Swahili in easy and fun ways is important to you, you’ve come to the right place at SwahiliPod101.

1. Must-Know Swahili Greetings

Start straight away with this greeting lesson. It’s short, but it packs a punch!

This short, but powerful lesson teaches you the basic ways to greet someone correctly in Swahili! At SwahiliPod101, you will be taught the correct pronunciation and intonation, as well as the correct times to greet in Swahili. And you will have fun!

The focus of this lesson is greetings in Swahili

Topic 1: How to greet when meeting

Sentence from the lesson:
Habari!
“Hello!”

It is the most commonly used informal greeting. Habari means “hi” or “hello.” We use it when we meet people. We can use this greeting with friends or relatives, but also with people we don’t know.
And the formal way of greeting people is Shikamoo!
During the evening we say: Habari ya jioni! Jioni is Swahili for “evening,” so Habari ya jioni means “good evening.”
Habari and Habari ya jioni are used when we meet someone, but when we leave, we don’t say these greetings again.

Topic 2: How to use parting expressions

Sentence from the lesson:
Kwaheri.
“Goodbye.”

Kwaheri means “good-bye.”
Finally, in Swahili we have an expression meaning “see you soon” that can be considered both formal and informal: Tuonane tena.

Language Tip

In formal situations, Kenyans commonly greet each other by shaking hands. But, if we meet someone we are very friendly with, we hug each other. Don’t be afraid to do it with your Kenyan friends—it’s normal!

2. Common Ways to Say Hello in Swahili

Standing at the airport in a foreign country for the first time can be a somewhat scary experience for anyone, especially if you need assistance. However, don’t worry – at SwahiliPod101 we teach you how to quickly get a local’s attention with friendly, correct Swahili greetings! You are more likely to get helped this way.

Here is our Swahili greetings list of all the general ways to address a person upon meeting. It is tailored for formal and informal situations.

1- Good morning.

Habari za asubuhi.

‘Good morning’ in Swahili is acceptable any time between approximately 5:30am and 12:00pm, when the day is still young. And smile – it’s the universal ice-breaker!

2- Good evening

Habari za jioni.

This greeting is one you would use casually when night begins to fall. Address your friends, close family or close acquaintances, and those who are not your superiors, with this phrase.

3- How are you?

U hali gani?

Show your friendly interest in another person’s well-being by asking this question. This is the casual greeting form that you would use with your friends and family. For the sake of the friendship, it would be good to listen carefully to the answer! It shows caring and selflessness on your part.

4- How have you been?

Umeshindaje?

This is a good question to ask someone you have not seen for a while. The inference is that some catching-up is needed!

5- What’s up?

Kuna nini?

An universally informal and energetic way to greet your friends or equals! Literally, it means ‘What’s going on in your life?’, yet often no answer is expected. It’s just a greeting! Crazy, right?!

6- Long time no see.

Siku nyingi sijakuona.

This phrase means is another greeting comment that means “I have not seen you for a while!” Often, no response is expected, except to reciprocate.

7- Hey!

Hey!

This is a friendly exclamation to greet your friends or equals with. Reserve its use more for people you see regularly!

8- Good afternoon.

Habari za mchana.

‘Good afternoon’ in Swahili is an informal greeting and is used during the second part of the day. The appropriate period falls, in most cultures, from 12:00am till sunset.

9- How’s it going?

Unaendelea aje?

This greeting phrase basically means the same as ‘How are things progressing?’, ‘How are things going in your life?’ or even ‘What’s up?’ Depending on the friendship, a lengthy answer is not always expected.

10- It’s nice to see you again.

Ni vizuri kukuona tena.

This friendly, welcoming phrase is best used after greeting someone you have not seen for a while. If you mean it, you will make the person feel special! This is a good thing to say to make someone feel welcome in Swahili.

11- How’s everything?

Kila kitu kiko vipi?

This is a variation of ‘How’s it going?’ Use casually with your equals or close acquaintances.

12- How’s your day?

Siku yako imekuaje?

Ask this when you’re speaking to your Swahili friend during the day. It’s a friendly phrase to start a conversation with.

13- Yo!

Yo!

Yo! is English slang and a universal greeting popular among young men of most nationalities. Rather don’t answer the phone with this, unless you know your caller well!

14- Hello!

Jambo!

Suitable for use in most settings, situations and persons, this is an important Swahili greeting to know. Be sure to master this word first at SwahiliPod101!

15- It’s nice to meet you.

Ni vyema kukutana na wewe.

When meeting someone for the first time, this is a polite and friendly way to welcome them. It means you are happy to make their acquaintance.

3. Why Should You Choose SwahiliPod101 To Learn How To Greet In Swahili?

Online learning systems abound, and it’s not easy to know which one will suit your needs best. This means you have to be careful and select a system with a good reputation, and that has proven longevity. SwahiliPod101, which is part of InnovativeLearning.com, ticks all the boxes! With millions of lesson downloads and over a decade of teaching, we can say with confidence that this is one of the best language learning systems on the web. Why is it such an excellent system? Let us count the ways…

1- Video Presentations with Native Speakers

Friendly native Swahili speakers guide you step-by-step through the process of learning vocabulary, phrases and much more. They demonstrate correct pronunciation and emphasis of the words, so as to ensure that you speak like a native when you’re done! Watching the enthusiastic tutors makes not only for a pleasant and more personal experience – it also allows you to copy mouth and lip movements. It’s like learning from your own Swahili friend in your own home!

2- Superb Flexibility with 24/7 Access to Learning Material – Anywhere and on Any Device connected to the Internet!

PC, Android, iPhone, iPad, laptop, even TV – whatever device you prefer! Go online with our FREE app to do your lessons, no matter where you are or which device you are using. All you need is a good internet connection to log on and learn to speak Swahili at your own pace, in your own place!

3- Pronunciation Tool Ensures You Really Speak Swahili!

In any language, correct pronunciation is often crucial. The nuances in language require this, or you could find yourself saying things you don’t mean. You will find our Pronunciation Tool invaluable to wrap your mouth around the correct way to greet in Swahili!

4- Our Content is Always New and Dynamic

Every week, new audio and video lessons are uploaded, so as to keep our promise that learning Swahili with SwahiliPod101 is always fun and exciting! In addition, you will get access to bonus material and basic Swahili phrases. These are a fantastic way to build your comprehension and speaking skills!

5- Need to Fast Track your Learning? We Have the Solution!

Most learning activities are more fun when you’re not doing them alone. For this reason we developed Premium PLUS, which gives you a personal tutor – 24/7! Also, this way you’re likely to learn to speak Swahili much faster!

So, if our lively Swahili blog is not enough for you, just upgrade to Premium PLUS to get your very own teacher. Personalised goals and lessons based on your needs, assessment of your progress, non-stop feedback and many other super features makes this a very attractive option.

Say ‘Hello’ to a wonderful, exciting way to learn another language, and learn how to say ‘Hello’ in Swahili in no time! You will be very happy you did!

Most everyone is familiar with this day, as it is celebrated nearly everywhere the world. Yet, when exactly is April Fools’ Day? And where did April Fools come from? April Fools’ Day is observed on April 1st every year. This day of jokes and pranks is believed to have stemmed from the 16th-century calendar change in France, when New Year’s Day was moved from April 1 to January 1. This action was taken due to the adoption of the Gregorian calendar.

However, a few people were resistant to the calendar change, so they continued to observe New Year’s Day on April 1st, rather than the new date. They were referred to as the “April Fools”, and others started playing mocking tricks on them. This custom endured, and is practiced to this day around the world!

Table of Contents

1. Top One Million Words You Need to Know for April Fools’ Day
2. Swahili Phrases You Can Use on April Fools’ Day
3. Some of the Coolest April Fools’ Pranks To Play on Anybody
4. How Can SwahiliPod101 Make Your April Fools’ Day Special?
5. Top 1000 Most Useful Phrases in Swahili – Testing New Technology

1. Top One Million Words You Need to Know for April Fools’ Day

Do you want to know how to say April Fools’ Day in Swahili? Well, there are millions of ways and words, but here are the top one million Swahili words you really need to know! Simply click this link. Here are some of them you will find useful:

1. joke – kutania
2. funny – chekesha
3. lie – danganya
4. deceptive – danganyo
5. fool – mjinga
6. humor – kichekesho
7. surprise – shangaza
8. April 1st – April tarehe moja
9. prank – laghai
10. prankster – mlaghai
11. play a joke – kutania mtu
12. sneaky – mnyati

2. Swahili Phrases You Can Use on April Fools’ Day

Don’t limit yourself to practical jokes – use these April Fools’ phrases in Swahili to prank your favorite Swahili speaking friend or colleague!

1. I learned Swahili in 1 month.
   • Nilijifunza Kiswahili kwa mwezi mmoja.
2. All classes for today got canceled.
   • Madarasa yote ya leo yamebatilishwa.
3. I’m sorry, but I’ve just broken your favorite pair of glasses.
   • Niwie radhi, lakini nimevunja miwani yako unayopenda zaidi.
4. Someone has just hit your car.
   • Mtu amegonga gari yako sasa hivi.
5. I’m getting married.
   • Ninaoleka.
6. You won a free ticket.
   • Umeshinda tiketi ya bure.
7. I saw your car being towed.
   • Niliona gari lako likivutwa dakawa.
8. They’re giving away free gift cards in front of the building.
   • Wanapeana bure kadi zawadi mbele ya jengo.
9. A handsome guy is waiting for you outside.
   • Mwanamume wa sura nzuri anakungojea nje.
10. A beautiful lady asked me to give this phone number to you.
    • Mwanamke mrembo aliniuliza nikupe nambari hii ya simu.
11. Can you come downstairs? I have something special for you.
    • Unaweza shuka chini? Nina kitu chema cha kukupa.
12. Thank you for your love letter this morning. I never could have guessed your feelings.
    • Asante kwa barua mapenzi asubuhi hii. Singeweza tabiri hisia zako.

Choose your victims carefully, though; the idea is to get them to laugh with you, not to hurt their feelings or humiliate them in front of others. Be extra careful if you choose to play a prank on your boss – you don’t want to antagonize them with an inappropriate joke.

3. Some of the Coolest April Fools’ Pranks To Play on Anybody

Right, now that you know the top million April Fools’ words in Swahili, let’s look at some super pranks and tricks to play on friends, colleagues and family. Some April Fools ideas never grow old, while new ones are born every year.

Never joke in such a way that it hurts anyone, or humiliates them badly in front of others – the idea is for everybody to laugh and enjoy the fun! Respect is still key, no matter what day of the year it is.

1- Infestation

This trick is so simple, yet so creepy, it’s almost unbelievable. Take black paper, cut out the silhouette of a giant cockroach, a spider or another insect, and stick it inside the lampshade of a table lamp. When the lamp is switched on, it will look like a monstrous insect is sitting inside the lampshade. Or, get a whole lot of realistic-looking plastic insects, and spread them over a colleague’s desk and chair, or, at home, over the kids’ beds etc. Creep-factor: stellar.

2- Which One Doesn’t Fit?

Put the photo of a celebrity or a notorious politician in a frame, and take it to work on April Fools’ Day. Hang the photo on the staff picture wall, and wait. You’ll be surprised how long it can take for people to notice that one picture doesn’t fit.

3- Something Weird in the Restroom

At work, replace the air freshener in the restroom with something noxious like insect killer, oven cleaner or your own odious mixture in a spray bottle. Be sure to cover the bottle’s body so no one suspects a swap.

Or paint a bar of soap with clear nail polish, and leave it at the hand wash basin. It will not lather.

Or, if your workplace’s restroom has partitioned toilets with short doors, arrange jeans or trousers and shoes on all but one of the toilet covers, so it looks like every stall is occupied. Now wait for complaints, and see how long it takes for someone to figure out the April Fools’ Day prank. You’ll probably wish you had a camera inside the restroom. But, unless you don’t mind getting fired, don’t put your own recording device in there!

4- Call Me Funny

Prepare and print out a few posters with the following instructions: Lion Roar Challenge! Call this number – 123-456-7890 – and leave your best lion’s roar as voicemail! Best roarer will be announced April 10 in the cafeteria. Prize: $100. (Lion’s roar is just an example; you can use any animal call, or even a movie character’s unique sound, such as Chewbacca from Star Wars. The weirder, the funnier. Obviously!) Put the posters up in the office where most of the staff is likely to see them. Now wait for the owner of the number to visit you with murderous intent. Have a conciliatory gift ready that’s not a prank.

5- Minty Cookies

This is another simple but hugely effective prank – simply separate iced cookies, scrape off the icing, and replace it with toothpaste. Serve during lunch or tea break at work, or put in your family’s lunch boxes. Be sure to take photos of your victim’s faces when they first bite into your April Fools’ cookies.

6- Wild Shopping

At your local grocer, place a realistic-looking plastic snake or spider among the fresh vegetables. Now wait around the corner for the first yell.

7- The Oldest Trick in the Book

Don’t forget probably the oldest, yet very effective April Fools’ joke in the book – smearing hand cream or Vaseline on a door handle that most staff, family or friends are likely to use. Yuck to the max!

8- Sneeze On Me

Another golden oldie is also gross, yet harmless and utterly satisfying as a prank. Fill a small spray bottle that you can easily conceal with water. Walk past a friend, colleague or one of your kids, and fake a sneeze while simultaneously spraying them with a bit of water. Expect to be called a totally disgusting person. Add a drop of lovely smelling essential oil to the water for extra confusion.

9- Word Play Repairs

Put a fresh leek in the hand wash basin at home or work, and then tell your housemates or colleagues this: “There’s a huge leak in the restroom/bathroom basin, it’s really serious. Please can someone go have a look?!” Expect exasperation and smiles all around. Note that this prank is only likely to work where people understand English well.

10- Scary Face

Print out a very scary face on an A4 sheet of paper, and place it in a colleague’s, or one of your kid’s drawers, so it’s the first thing they see when they open the drawer. You may not be very popular for a while.

11- Wake Up To Madness

Put foamy shaving cream, or real whipped cream on your hand, and wake your kid up by tickling their nose with it. As long as they get the joke, this could be a wonderful and fun way to start April Fools’ Day.

12- Computer Prank

This one’s fabulous, if you have a bit of time to fiddle with a colleague, friend or your kid’s computer. It is most effective on a computer where most of the icons they use are on the desktop background itself (as opposed to on the bottom task bar).

Take and save a screenshot of their desktop with the icons. Set this screenshot as their background image. Now delete all the working icons. When they return to their computer, wait for the curses when no amount of clicking on the icons works.

13- Monster Under the Cup

This one will also work well anywhere people meet. Take a paper cup, and write the following on it in black pen: “Danger! Don’t lift, big spider underneath.” Place it upside-down on prominent flat surface, such as a kitchen counter, a colleague’s desk or a restaurant table. Expect some truly interesting responses.

14- Prank Door

Write in large letters on a large and noticeable piece of paper: PUSH. Tape this notice on a door that should be pulled to open, and watch the hilarious struggle of those clever souls who actually read signs.

4. How Can SwahiliPod101 Make Your April Fools’ Day Special?

If you happen to visit Kenya, or if you work for any Swahili speaking company, knowing the above Swahili prankster phrases can really lighten up your day. Showing you have a sense of humor can go a long way to cement good relationships in any situation. These phrases are at your disposal for free, as well as are these 100 core Swahili words, which you will learn how to pronounce perfectly.

Also, don’t stop at learning April Fools’ phrases in Swahili – bone up your Swahili language skills with these FREE key phrases. Yes, SwahiliPod101 doesn’t joke when it comes to effective, fun and easy learning.

Now, as a bonus, test our super-learning technology, and learn the Top 1000 most useful phrases in Swahili below! But that’s not all. Read on to learn how you can be eligible for large enrollment discounts at SwahiliPod101.

5. Top 1000 Most Useful Phrases in Swahili – testing new technology

Help us by being a language guinea pig! Listen to this video above with embedded cutting-edge, frequency-based learning technology that enables you to learn large amounts of data in record time.

• Note: This technology is in beta-phase of development, and we invite your input for fine-tuning.
• To participate: Watch the video for instructions, and leave a comment to rate it. Your comment will make you eligible for large enrollment-fee discounts. To watch the video, please click the play button.

Thank you for helping SwahiliPod101! We’re serious about making learning Swahili fun.

Learn 4 honest reasons you need Swahili slang words and why they are so vital to truly learning and mastering the language.

Teachers may normally cringe at the thought of their students learning Swahili slang words. After all, slang words and phrases are typically defined as being grammatically incorrect. So why would your teacher want you to spend time learning the “wrong way” to speak Swahili? Here are 4 of the top reasons why you should study slang words and expressions when learning Swahili or any new language.

1. Native Speakers Use Slang Expressions in Everyday Conversation

If you are going to study a foreign language and plan to use it to speak with native speakers, then you have to learn slang words and expressions. Otherwise, just using formal expressions and grammar may alienate you from native speakers and make it more difficult to establish a real connection. So it is best to at least learn some common slang words and expressions if you’re planning to meet or speak socially with someone.

2. Slang Words Are Used All Throughout Swahili Culture

If you turn on any popular Swahili TV show, listen to any song, or watch any movie, you are quickly going to see the value of learning Swahili slang phrases. Just like everyday conversations between native speakers, Swahili culture is filled with slang phrases and expressions. Without at least some knowledge of the more common slang phrases, popular culture and most conversations will be very confusing and potentially alienating.

3. Slang Expressions Help You Better Express Your True Thoughts and Feelings

Only relying on formal grammar and vocabulary is very limiting, especially in social situations. Just like in your native language, using the appropriate Swahili slang words can help you express a broader range of emotions, thoughts, and feelings.

4. Proper Use of Slang Makes You Sound More Natural

We’ve all met foreigners who technically used formal language perfectly but still sounded odd and well….foreign. But when you use the right slang words and expressions, you will sound more natural and like a true native speaker. If you notice, even most politicians include a sprinkling of slang expressions and words throughout their speeches to help them sound more natural and to better connect with the audience.

The Dark Side of Slang Expressions

Learning Swahili slang words can indeed help you sound more natural, better understand the people and culture, and make integration much easier. However, there is a dark side: using the wrong slang expressions can also make you look foolish, uneducated, and potentially disrespectful.

But how do you know which slang words or phrases to use and when?

The truth is that you can’t learn the most modern and appropriate slang words in textbooks or formal classroom settings. By the time the information gets incorporated into a formal curriculum, it’s already outdated and no longer in use by actual Swahili people. And while you can learn current slang expressions from Swahili TV shows, movies, songs, and games, you may not understand the context. If that happens, you may use the right Swahili slang words but in the wrong situation and still look like a fool or possibly even offend someone.

So where can you learn current slang expressions and the right context in which to use them?

At SwahiliPod101, native speaking instructors create audio and video lessons that can include slang expressions and words. Our instructors provide context and examples for all the Swahili slang words used in any lesson to make sure students understand the right time and place to use them.

Swahili slang words and expressions may be grammatically incorrect but they are vital to truly understanding and immersing yourself in the culture. In fact, it will be very difficult to fully understand any movie, TV show, song, game, or even 1-on-1 conversation without knowing a few of the more common slang expressions.

However, it is important to learn the proper context and use of even popular slang expressions or you may come across as confusing, disrespectful, or uneducated.
At SwahiliPod101, you’ll learn how to use slang phrases and words to draw the right attention and avoid these problems.

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dandelioni dandelion (noun)

Dandelioni huliwa kwenye supu na kachumbari katika sehemu zingine.
Dandelions are eaten in soups and salads in someplaces.

Dandelioni njano.
yellow dandelions

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