Signification
Family ties are strongest.
Contexte culturel
In Tanzania, this proverb is linked to the concept of 'Undugu' (brotherhood). It was a key part of the social fabric during the Ujamaa era, where the whole nation was encouraged to view each other as family. In Kenya, the proverb is often used in the context of 'Harambee' (pulling together). When a family member has a medical bill or wedding, the extended family is expected to contribute because 'blood is thicker than water.' Coastal Swahili culture places high value on 'Ukoo' (lineage). This proverb is often recited by elders during 'Baraza' (meetings) to settle inheritance or land disputes. For Swahili speakers living abroad, this proverb is a way to maintain connection to their roots and remind the younger generation of their obligations to relatives back home.
Use it with elders
Elders love it when learners use proverbs. It shows deep respect for the language.
Don't over-use
Using it too often can make you sound like you're making excuses for family members' bad behavior.
Signification
Family ties are strongest.
Use it with elders
Elders love it when learners use proverbs. It shows deep respect for the language.
Don't over-use
Using it too often can make you sound like you're making excuses for family members' bad behavior.
Teste-toi
Complete the proverb with the correct word.
Damu ni ______ kuliko maji.
'Nzito' means heavy/thick, which is the core of the proverb's comparison.
Which situation best fits the proverb 'Damu ni nzito kuliko maji'?
A person decides to...
The proverb is about prioritizing family needs over personal or external desires.
Choose the best response to complete the dialogue.
A: Kwa nini unamsamehe kaka yako kila wakati? B: ____________________.
This is the standard way to explain unconditional family forgiveness.
🎉 Score : /3
Aides visuelles
Blood vs. Water in Swahili Culture
Banque d exercices
3 exercicesDamu ni ______ kuliko maji.
'Nzito' means heavy/thick, which is the core of the proverb's comparison.
A person decides to...
The proverb is about prioritizing family needs over personal or external desires.
A: Kwa nini unamsamehe kaka yako kila wakati? B: ____________________.
This is the standard way to explain unconditional family forgiveness.
🎉 Score : /3
Questions fréquentes
2 questionsTechnically no, it's for biological family. For a best friend, you might say 'Yeye ni kama ndugu yangu' (He is like my brother).
No, 'nzito' can mean heavy (weight) or thick (consistency). In this proverb, it means both figuratively.
Expressions liées
Udugu ni kufa na kuzikana
similarBrotherhood means dying and being buried together.
Ndugu mui heri kuwa naye
builds onA bad relative is better than no relative.
Maji yakimwagika hayazoleki
contrastSpilt water cannot be gathered up.
