Bedeutung
Using currency to buy things.
Kultureller Hintergrund
In Tanzania, 'tumia pesa' is often linked to the concept of 'Kula Maisha' (Eating Life). Spending money on food and drinks with friends is seen as a way to celebrate existence. The 'Harambee' spirit in Kenya means that 'tumia pesa' often happens in the context of community fundraising for weddings or funerals. Due to its history as a trade port, spending money in Zanzibar often involves intense bargaining ('kupatana'). You 'tumia pesa' only after a long negotiation. In Uganda, Swahili is often used in security and trade contexts. 'Tumia pesa' might be used more strictly in business transactions compared to the more social coastal Swahili.
The 'Use' Logic
If you forget the word for 'spend', just remember that Swahili speakers 'use' money. It's a very logical way to think!
Avoid 'Spend' as 'Waste'
In English, 'spending' can be neutral. In some contexts, 'tumia pesa' can sound like you are using up a resource. If you want to be very positive, use 'wekeza' (invest).
Bedeutung
Using currency to buy things.
The 'Use' Logic
If you forget the word for 'spend', just remember that Swahili speakers 'use' money. It's a very logical way to think!
Avoid 'Spend' as 'Waste'
In English, 'spending' can be neutral. In some contexts, 'tumia pesa' can sound like you are using up a resource. If you want to be very positive, use 'wekeza' (invest).
M-Pesa Context
When using mobile money, you will often hear 'tuma pesa' (send money) which sounds very similar to 'tumia pesa'. Listen closely to that extra 'i'!
Teste dich selbst
Fill in the correct form of 'tumia' in the present tense.
Mimi _______ pesa kununua chakula.
The subject 'Mimi' (I) requires the prefix 'ni-' and the present tense marker '-na-'.
Which sentence means 'Don't spend a lot of money'?
Choose the correct Swahili translation:
'Usitumie' is the negative imperative form (Don't use/spend).
Complete the dialogue between two friends.
A: Je, utatumia pesa ngapi leo? B: ________ pesa kidogo tu.
Since the question is in the future tense ('utatumia'), the answer should also be in the future tense ('nitatumia').
Match the phrase to the correct situation.
Phrase: 'Tumia pesa kwa busara'
'Kwa busara' means 'wisely', which fits a context of advice.
🎉 Ergebnis: /4
Visuelle Lernhilfen
Ways to Spend
Cash
- • Pesa taslimu
- • Sarafu
Digital
- • M-Pesa
- • Kadi ya benki
Aufgabensammlung
4 AufgabenMimi _______ pesa kununua chakula.
The subject 'Mimi' (I) requires the prefix 'ni-' and the present tense marker '-na-'.
Choose the correct Swahili translation:
'Usitumie' is the negative imperative form (Don't use/spend).
A: Je, utatumia pesa ngapi leo? B: ________ pesa kidogo tu.
Since the question is in the future tense ('utatumia'), the answer should also be in the future tense ('nitatumia').
Phrase: 'Tumia pesa kwa busara'
'Kwa busara' means 'wisely', which fits a context of advice.
🎉 Ergebnis: /4
Häufig gestellte Fragen
10 FragenYes, but 'lipa bili' (pay bills) is more specific. 'Tumia pesa kulipa bili' is perfectly correct.
It is both. In Swahili noun classes, it stays the same, but we usually treat it as plural (zangu/nyingi).
'Pesa' is the standard word. 'Hela' is very common and slightly more informal, but both are used everywhere.
You say 'Nilitumia pesa nyingi mno' or 'Nilitumia pesa kupita kiasi'.
Absolutely. You can 'tumia kisu' (use a knife), 'tumia simu' (use a phone), or 'tumia akili' (use your brain/intelligence).
Generally no, but like in many cultures, asking someone exactly how much they 'tumia' can be private.
No, it refers to the value. You can 'tumia pesa' via credit card, phone, or cash.
The opposite is 'weka akiba' (to save money) or 'pata pesa' (to get/earn money).
Say 'Sitaki kutumia pesa'.
Yes, 'kuchoma chapaa' (burning money) is a popular slang version among youth.
Verwandte Redewendungen
Weka akiba
contrastTo save money
Poteza pesa
similarTo lose money
Toa pesa
similarTo give or withdraw money
Badili pesa
specialized formTo exchange currency
