Signification
Love cannot be hidden.
Contexte culturel
Proverbs (Methali) are a central part of Swahili identity. Using them shows linguistic mastery and respect for tradition. Many songs use this proverb to describe the pain or excitement of a love that cannot be kept secret. In Taarab music, this proverb is often used as a 'mipasho' (lyrical jab) at someone whose secret affairs have been discovered. In places like Mombasa, this phrase is used in 'vilinge' (social circles) to discuss local news and relationships.
Use it for teasing
It's a great way to break the ice when a friend is being shy about a new relationship.
Don't be too serious
This is usually a lighthearted proverb. Don't use it to expose someone's secret in a harmful way.
Signification
Love cannot be hidden.
Use it for teasing
It's a great way to break the ice when a friend is being shy about a new relationship.
Don't be too serious
This is usually a lighthearted proverb. Don't use it to expose someone's secret in a harmful way.
Teste-toi
Complete the proverb.
Mapenzi ni _______.
The standard proverb uses 'kikohozi' (cough).
In which situation would you use this proverb?
Your friend is blushing because their crush just walked into the room.
The proverb is used when romantic feelings become obvious.
Choose the best response for Juma.
Ali: 'Mbona unamwangalia sana Mariam?' Juma: 'Simwangalii!' Ali: 'Haya, lakini kumbuka _______.'
Ali is teasing Juma about his obvious feelings for Mariam.
🎉 Score : /3
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
3 exercicesMapenzi ni _______.
The standard proverb uses 'kikohozi' (cough).
Your friend is blushing because their crush just walked into the room.
The proverb is used when romantic feelings become obvious.
Ali: 'Mbona unamwangalia sana Mariam?' Juma: 'Simwangalii!' Ali: 'Haya, lakini kumbuka _______.'
Ali is teasing Juma about his obvious feelings for Mariam.
🎉 Score : /3
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsYes, in 99% of cases, it refers to romantic attraction. It's rarely used for the love of a parent or a friend.
No, that's not a standard proverb. Stick to 'kikohozi' (cough) to be understood.
It depends on your relationship. Usually, it's fine, but it's more common for elders to say it to younger people.
'Ni' is the Swahili word for 'is' or 'are'. It doesn't change.
Yes, it is widely understood and used in both countries and throughout the Swahili-speaking world.
Because a cough is involuntary and loud—you can't hide it easily, just like you can't hide being in love.
Absolutely! It's a very popular theme in Swahili music lyrics.
The proverb itself is a fixed phrase, so you don't pluralize it even if talking about many people.
No, it's not about the 'badness' of a cough, but the 'unhideable' nature of it.
Then you wouldn't use this proverb! This proverb is specifically about love NOT being a secret.
Expressions liées
Mapenzi ni upofu
similarLove is blind.
Siri ya wawili
contrastA secret of two (is no longer a secret).
Mficha ugonjwa, kifo humuumbua
builds onHe who hides an illness, death will reveal him.
