You might have noticed that Swahili verbs change depending on who is doing the action. The verb -la (to eat) is a good example of this.

You will always find it with prefixes that tell you about the subject. For instance, 'ninakula' means 'I am eating,' and 'anakula' means 'he/she is eating.' The '-na-' part indicates the present tense.

Understanding how these prefixes work with -la will help you grasp Swahili verb conjugation more generally. It's not usually used on its own.

la 30 सेकंड में

  • Core verb for eating.
  • Infinitive form.
  • Crucial for basic communication.

स्तर के अनुसार उदाहरण

1

Ninapenda kula matunda kila asubuhi.

I like to eat fruits every morning.

The verb 'kula' is in the infinitive form, meaning 'to eat'. 'Ninapenda' means 'I like'.

2

Watoto wanakula chakula cha mchana shuleni.

The children are eating lunch at school.

'Wanakula' is the present continuous tense, meaning 'they are eating'.

3

Tulikula samaki na ugali jana usiku.

We ate fish and ugali last night.

'Tulikula' is the past tense, meaning 'we ate'.

4

Je, unataka kula nini leo?

What do you want to eat today?

Here 'kula' is used with 'unataka' (you want) to form 'you want to eat'.

5

Hatuwezi kula sasa hivi, tunasubiri wageni.

We cannot eat right now, we are waiting for guests.

'Hatuwezi kula' means 'we cannot eat'.

6

Baada ya kazi, nitakula chakula kitamu.

After work, I will eat delicious food.

'Nitakula' is the future tense, meaning 'I will eat'.

7

Kula polepole, chakula kitamu kinahitaji muda.

Eat slowly, delicious food needs time.

'Kula' here is an imperative, a command to eat.

8

Wazazi wangu walikula pamoja na marafiki zao.

My parents ate with their friends.

'Walikula' is the past tense, meaning 'they ate'.

1

Watalii hupenda kula samaki wabichi wanapokuwa Pwani ya Kenya.

Tourists like to eat fresh fish when they are on the Kenyan Coast.

Hupenda is a habitual tense form.

2

Mama yangu hupika na kula chakula cha jioni na wanafamilia wengine kila Jumapili.

My mother cooks and eats dinner with other family members every Sunday.

Kila Jumapili means 'every Sunday'.

3

Ingawa alisema hatakula, nilimwona akimaliza sahani yake yote.

Although he said he wouldn't eat, I saw him finish his entire plate.

Ingawa means 'although'.

4

Je, unahisi njaa? Naweza kukuandalia kitu kidogo cha kula.

Are you feeling hungry? I can prepare you something small to eat.

Kukuandalia combines the object pronoun 'ku' (you) with the verb 'andalia' (prepare for).

5

Tafadhali usikule ovyoovyo; tungependa kuokoa kidogo kwa ajili ya kesho.

Please don't eat carelessly; we would like to save a little for tomorrow.

Usikule is a negative imperative form. Ovyoovyo means 'carelessly'.

6

Wanafunzi walikaa kimya wakisubiri ruhusa ya kuanza kula vyakula vyao.

The students sat quietly, waiting for permission to start eating their food.

Wakikaa and wakisubiri are participial forms, showing simultaneous actions.

7

Ni muhimu kula mlo kamili ili kuwa na afya njema na nguvu.

It is important to eat a complete meal to be healthy and strong.

Mlo kamili means 'complete meal'.

8

Baada ya sherehe, wageni walikaa chini na kuanza kula keki na vinywaji.

After the party, the guests sat down and began to eat cake and drinks.

Walianza means 'they began'.

1

Hata hivyo, ili jamii iweze kunawiri kikamilifu, ni lazima kila mwanachama awe na fursa sawa ya kujielimisha na kufaidika na rasilimali za nchi, bila kujali asili yake au hali yake ya kiuchumi. Tusisahau kwamba haki ya kuishi na la, kuvaa, na kupata makazi ni haki za msingi za binadamu, na ni wajibu wetu kuhakikisha kuwa kila mmoja anazipata.

However, for a society to fully flourish, every member must have equal opportunities for education and to benefit from the nation's resources, regardless of their background or economic status. Let's not forget that the right to live and eat, dress, and have shelter are fundamental human rights, and it is our responsibility to ensure everyone has them.

Here, 'la' is used as an infinitive verb in a list of fundamental rights.

2

Katika mkutano wa Baraza la Usalama la Umoja wa Mataifa, nchi mbalimbali ziliweka wazi misimamo yao kuhusu mzozo uliokuwa ukiendelea katika eneo hilo. Baadhi ya wawakilishi walisisitiza umuhimu wa mazungumzo ya amani, huku wengine wakitaka hatua kali zichukuliwe dhidi ya wale wanaokiuka sheria za kimataifa. Ni muhimu kukumbuka kwamba jukumu la Baraza la Usalama ni kuhakikisha amani na usalama wa kimataifa, na siyo kuunga mkono upande wowote katika migogoro.

In the United Nations Security Council meeting, various countries made their positions clear regarding the ongoing conflict in the region. Some representatives emphasized the importance of peace talks, while others called for strong action against those violating international laws. It is important to remember that the role of the Security Council is to ensure international peace and security, not to support any side in conflicts.

'La' here is a possessive concord referring to 'Baraza' (Council) and indicating 'of the' or 'belonging to the'.

3

Janga la mabadiliko ya tabianchi ni tishio kubwa kwa maisha ya binadamu na viumbe hai wengine duniani. Athari zake zimeshuhudiwa katika maeneo mbalimbali, kuanzia mafuriko makubwa na ukame wa kupindukia, hadi kuongezeka kwa magonjwa na uharibifu wa mifumo ya ikolojia. Ili kukabiliana na janga hili, ni muhimu kwa serikali, mashirika ya kimataifa, na jamii kwa ujumla kuchukua hatua madhubuti za kupunguza utoaji wa hewa chafuzi na kuwekeza katika nishati safi.

The climate change crisis is a major threat to human life and other living organisms globally. Its effects have been witnessed in various regions, from severe floods and extreme droughts, to increased diseases and ecological system damage. To confront this crisis, it is crucial for governments, international organizations, and the community at large to take decisive steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and invest in clean energy.

In this context, 'la' serves as a possessive concord, connecting 'Janga' (calamity/crisis) to 'mabadiliko ya tabianchi' (climate change).

4

Uelewa wa kina kuhusu historia ya taifa ni muhimu kwa vizazi vijavyo ili waweze kujifunza kutoka kwa makosa ya zamani na kujenga mustakabali bora. Ni kupitia historia tunapata kujua chimbuko letu, harakati za ukombozi, na changamoto ambazo waasisi wetu walikabiliana nazo. Hivyo basi, kufundisha historia shuleni na kuiweka wazi kwa umma ni jukumu la kila mmoja wetu.

A deep understanding of the nation's history is crucial for future generations so they can learn from past mistakes and build a better future. It is through history that we come to know our origins, liberation movements, and the challenges our founders faced. Therefore, teaching history in schools and making it accessible to the public is everyone's responsibility.

Here, 'la' acts as a possessive concord, linking 'historia' (history) to 'taifa' (nation).

5

Kuna umuhimu mkubwa wa kuwekeza katika elimu ya sayansi na teknolojia, kwani ndiyo nguzo kuu ya maendeleo ya kiuchumi na kijamii. Nchi ambazo zimewekeza kikamilifu katika sekta hizi zimepiga hatua kubwa katika uvumbuzi na kuboresha maisha ya wananchi wake. Ni kupitia sayansi na teknolojia tunaweza kutatua matatizo changamano yanayoikabili jamii yetu na kuunda fursa mpya za ajira.

There is a great importance in investing in science and technology education, as it is the main pillar of economic and social development. Countries that have fully invested in these sectors have made significant strides in innovation and improving the lives of their citizens. It is through science and technology that we can solve complex problems facing our society and create new employment opportunities.

'La' functions as a possessive concord, relating 'umuhimu' (importance) to 'kuwekeza' (to invest).

6

Serikali imezindua kampeni kabambe ya kupambana na rushwa, ikiwataka wananchi wote kushirikiana katika juhudi hizo. Rushwa ni adui wa haki na maendeleo, na inazorotesha utoaji wa huduma za umma. Ni muhimu kwa kila mmoja wetu kutoa taarifa za vitendo vya rushwa na kutokubali kushawishiwa kutoa au kupokea rushwa. Kampeni hii ina lengo la kujenga utawala bora na kuhakikisha usawa mbele ya sheria.

The government has launched an ambitious campaign to combat corruption, calling on all citizens to cooperate in these efforts. Corruption is an enemy of justice and development, and it undermines the provision of public services. It is important for each one of us to report acts of corruption and to refuse to be enticed into giving or receiving bribes. This campaign aims to build good governance and ensure equality before the law.

In this sentence, 'la' is used as a possessive concord, connecting 'adui' (enemy) to 'haki na maendeleo' (justice and development).

7

Kufuatia mvua kubwa zilizonyesha kwa wiki kadhaa, maeneo mengi yameathirika vibaya na mafuriko. Barabara zimeharibika, nyumba zimebomoka, na baadhi ya watu wamelazimika kuyahama makazi yao. Serikali na mashirika ya misaada yamejitokeza kutoa msaada wa dharura kwa waathirika, ikiwemo chakula, malazi, na huduma za afya. Ni muhimu kwa jamii pia kuungana mkono katika kipindi hiki kigumu.

Following heavy rains that fell for several weeks, many areas have been severely affected by floods. Roads have been damaged, houses have collapsed, and some people have been forced to evacuate their homes. The government and aid organizations have come forward to provide emergency assistance to the victims, including food, shelter, and health services. It is also important for the community to unite during this difficult period.

'La' acts as a possessive concord here, linking 'maeneo' (areas) to 'mafuriko' (floods), meaning 'of floods' or 'affected by floods'.

8

Umuhimu wa kutunza mazingira yetu hauwezi kusisitizwa vya kutosha. Uchafuzi wa hewa, maji, na ardhi una athari mbaya kwa afya ya binadamu na ustawi wa viumbe hai wengine. Ni wajibu wetu sote kuhakikisha kwamba tunatumia rasilimali kwa busara, tunapanda miti, na tunazuia shughuli zinazoharibu mazingira. Kuishi katika mazingira safi na salama ni haki ya kila mmoja wetu.

The importance of protecting our environment cannot be overemphasized. Air, water, and land pollution have severe impacts on human health and the well-being of other living organisms. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that we use resources wisely, plant trees, and prevent activities that harm the environment. Living in a clean and safe environment is everyone's right.

Here, 'la' functions as a possessive concord, connecting 'Umuhimu' (importance) to 'kutunza mazingira' (to protect the environment).

अक्सर इससे भ्रम होता है

la vs lia

Means 'to cry'. Similar sound to 'kula' but with an 'i' instead of 'u'.

la vs lala

Means 'to sleep'. Can be confused due to starting with 'l-a' sound.

la vs lahaula

An exclamation, often meaning 'goodness gracious' or 'oh my'. Can be confused due to similar initial sounds.

आसानी से भ्रमित होने वाले

la vs kula

Often confused with 'lia' (to cry) due to similar sounds.

'Kula' means 'to eat', while 'lia' means 'to cry'. The 'u' and 'i' make a big difference.

Mimi **kula** chakula. (I **eat** food.)

la vs la

This is the bare infinitive form of 'to eat'. It's usually seen attached to other words as part of a verb conjugation, not on its own.

'La' is a verb root. You'll often see it as part of a conjugated verb like 'anakula' (he/she is eating) or 'nilikula' (I ate). It doesn't stand alone as 'to eat' in a sentence.

Anakua **la** chakula. (He/She is **eating** food.)

la vs chakula

Sounds like 'kula' but is a noun, not a verb.

'Kula' is the verb 'to eat'. 'Chakula' is the noun 'food'.

Nina **chakula** kingi. (I have a lot of **food**.)

la vs mlo

Another word related to eating, but it means a meal, not the act of eating.

'Mlo' refers to a meal (e.g., breakfast, lunch, dinner), while 'kula' is the act of eating.

Ninaandaa **mlo** wa jioni. (I am preparing dinner [a **meal** of the evening].)

la vs kuli

A less common word, but can be confused due to similar sound. It refers to a coolie or laborer.

'Kuli' is a noun for a laborer. 'Kula' is the verb 'to eat'.

Yule **kuli** anafanya kazi ngumu. (That **laborer** is working hard.)

शब्द परिवार

संज्ञा

chakula food
mlo meal
mkulaji eater, consumer
ulaji the act of eating, consumption

क्रिया

lisha to feed
lika to be edible, to be eaten

विशेषण

kali edible (e.g., used with food items)

अक्सर पूछे जाने वाले सवाल

10 सवाल

The Swahili word for 'to eat' is kula.

Yes, 'la' is a common Swahili word. It's often used as a negative particle or a possessive. For 'to eat', you're looking for kula.

La has several uses, but it generally means 'no' or 'of' (as a possessive marker for some noun classes). Kula specifically means 'to eat'. They are completely different words with different meanings and functions.

You can use kula just like 'to eat' in English. For example, 'Ninapenda kula matunda.' (I like to eat fruit.)

Yes, like many Swahili verbs, kula changes with subject prefixes. For example, 'Ninakula' (I am eating), 'Unakula' (You are eating), 'Atakula' (He/She will eat).

If you just say 'la' to mean 'to eat', it will likely be misunderstood as 'no' or 'of'. Always use kula for 'to eat'.

While kula is the most common and general term for 'to eat', there are more specific verbs for consuming certain things or in certain ways, but kula is your go-to for A1 level.

You say 'I eat' as Ninakula. 'Ni-' is the prefix for 'I' and '-na-' is for the present continuous tense.

The past tense of kula is formed by changing the tense marker. For example, 'Nilikula' means 'I ate'.

Not directly for the action of eating. While you might use 'la' in a phrase like 'chakula cha lazima' (necessary food), it's not the verb 'to eat'. The verb is always kula.

खुद को परखो 54 सवाल

listening A1

Listen to the basic verb form.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Nina la. (I eat.)
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening A1

Listen for the 'ku' prefix indicating an ongoing action.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Wanakula. (They are eating.)
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening A1

Listen for the past tense prefix 'li'.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Alikula. (He/She ate.)
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking A1

Read this aloud:

Mimi hula.

Focus: Hula

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking A1

Read this aloud:

Utakula?

Focus: Utakula

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking A1

Read this aloud:

Tunakula chakula.

Focus: Tunakula

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
multiple choice A2

Which sentence correctly uses 'kula' (to eat) in the present tense for 'I eat'?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Ninakula.

The prefix 'ni-' indicates 'I' and '-na-' indicates present tense.

multiple choice A2

Choose the correct Swahili translation for 'They are eating bread.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Wanakula mkate.

The prefix 'wa-' means 'they' and '-na-' indicates present tense. 'Mkate' is bread.

multiple choice A2

Which option translates to 'We will eat rice'?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Tutakula wali.

The prefix 'tu-' means 'we' and '-ta-' indicates future tense. 'Wali' is rice.

true false A2

The sentence 'Anakula matunda' means 'He/She ate fruits.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: गलत

The sentence 'Anakula matunda' means 'He/She is eating fruits.' The '-na-' infix indicates present tense, not past tense.

true false A2

'Ulikula samaki' means 'You ate fish.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: सही

The prefix 'u-' means 'you (singular)', '-li-' indicates past tense, and 'samaki' means fish.

true false A2

In Swahili, 'kula' can only be used for humans eating.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: गलत

'Kula' can also be used for animals eating. For example, 'Mbwa anakula' (The dog is eating).

writing A2

Write a short sentence saying 'I eat food.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

Mimi nakula chakula.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing A2

Write a sentence saying 'They are eating fruit.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

Wao wanakula matunda.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing A2

Write a sentence asking 'Do you (singular) eat ugali?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

Unakula ugali?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
reading A2

What did I eat yesterday?

Read this passage:

Jana nilikula wali na samaki. Leo nitakula kuku na viazi. Sisi hupenda kula vizuri kila siku.

What did I eat yesterday?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Wali na samaki

The passage says 'Jana nilikula wali na samaki' which means 'Yesterday I ate rice and fish'.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Wali na samaki

The passage says 'Jana nilikula wali na samaki' which means 'Yesterday I ate rice and fish'.

reading A2

What do the children eat in the morning?

Read this passage:

Watoto wanakula mkate na chai asubuhi. Hawakula chakula kingi mchana, lakini wanapenda kula matunda.

What do the children eat in the morning?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Mkate na chai

The passage states 'Watoto wanakula mkate na chai asubuhi' which translates to 'The children eat bread and tea in the morning'.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Mkate na chai

The passage states 'Watoto wanakula mkate na chai asubuhi' which translates to 'The children eat bread and tea in the morning'.

reading A2

What does my friend like to eat?

Read this passage:

Mimi hupenda sana kula mboga. Rafiki yangu hapendi kula nyama, anapenda kula samaki.

What does my friend like to eat?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Samaki

The passage says 'Rafiki yangu hapendi kula nyama, anapenda kula samaki' meaning 'My friend doesn't like to eat meat, she likes to eat fish'.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Samaki

The passage says 'Rafiki yangu hapendi kula nyama, anapenda kula samaki' meaning 'My friend doesn't like to eat meat, she likes to eat fish'.

multiple choice B1

Which of these sentences correctly uses 'kula' to mean 'to eat' in a present tense context?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Watoto wanakula matunda.

'Wanakula' correctly conjugates 'kula' for 'they are eating' in the present continuous tense, appropriate for 'watoto' (children). The others use past, future, or imperative.

multiple choice B1

You want to say 'We ate rice yesterday.' Which Swahili sentence is correct?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Sisi tulikula wali jana.

'Tulikula' is the correct past tense conjugation of 'kula' for 'we ate'. 'Jana' means yesterday.

multiple choice B1

Which sentence implies a polite request or suggestion to eat?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Tafadhali kula polepole.

'Tafadhali' means 'please', making 'Tafadhali kula polepole' a polite request to 'please eat slowly'.

true false B1

The sentence 'Nitakula kifungua kinywa kesho' means 'I will eat breakfast tomorrow.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: सही

'Nitakula' is the future tense for 'I will eat', and 'kifungua kinywa' is breakfast. 'Kesho' means tomorrow.

true false B1

If someone says 'Hajakula bado,' it means 'He has eaten already.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: गलत

'Hajakula bado' means 'He has not eaten yet'. 'Ha-' is a negative prefix, and 'bado' means 'yet'.

true false B1

In the sentence 'Wao hupenda kula matunda,' the verb 'kula' is used to express a habitual action.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: सही

The prefix 'hu-' before 'penda' (to like) indicates a habitual action. So, 'hupenda kula' means 'they habitually like to eat'.

writing B1

Describe your favorite meal in Swahili, including where you usually eat it and with whom.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

Mlo wangu ninaoupenda zaidi ni ugali na samaki. Kawaida mimi hula chakula hiki nyumbani na familia yangu kila Jumapili.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing B1

Imagine you are inviting a friend to have dinner at your place. Write a short message in Swahili explaining what you plan to cook and asking about their dietary restrictions.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

Habari rafiki! Ningependa kukualika kula chakula cha jioni kwangu Ijumaa hii. Ninapanga kupika wali na kuku. Je, una vikwazo vyovyote vya lishe?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing B1

Write a short paragraph about the importance of eating healthy food. Use at least two examples of healthy foods in Swahili.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

Kula chakula chenye afya ni muhimu sana kwa mwili wetu. Chakula bora hutupatia nguvu na kutulinda dhidi ya magonjwa. Kwa mfano, tunapaswa kula matunda na mboga nyingi kila siku.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
reading B1

Je, familia ya Bwana Musa ilikula nini kwa chakula cha jioni?

Read this passage:

Jana usiku, familia ya Bwana Musa ilikula chakula cha jioni pamoja. Walikula wali na maharagwe, na baada ya hapo walikunywa chai. Watoto walifurahi sana kwa sababu Bwana Musa aliwaeleza hadithi za kuvutia baada ya kula.

Je, familia ya Bwana Musa ilikula nini kwa chakula cha jioni?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Wali na maharagwe

Sentensi ya kwanza inasema 'Walikula wali na maharagwe'.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Wali na maharagwe

Sentensi ya kwanza inasema 'Walikula wali na maharagwe'.

reading B1

Kulingana na kifungu, kula pamoja kunaonyesha nini katika utamaduni wa Waswahili?

Read this passage:

Katika utamaduni wa Waswahili, kula pamoja ni ishara ya umoja na upendo. Mara nyingi, watu hukaa chini kwenye mkeka na kushiriki chakula kutoka sahani moja kubwa. Hii huimarisha uhusiano kati ya wanajamii.

Kulingana na kifungu, kula pamoja kunaonyesha nini katika utamaduni wa Waswahili?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Umoja na upendo

Sentensi ya kwanza inasema 'kula pamoja ni ishara ya umoja na upendo'.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Umoja na upendo

Sentensi ya kwanza inasema 'kula pamoja ni ishara ya umoja na upendo'.

reading B1

Je, ni ushauri gani daktari alimpa Mariam kuhusu ulaji wake?

Read this passage:

Daktari alimshauri Mariam apunguze kula vyakula vyenye mafuta mengi na kuongeza ulaji wa matunda na mboga. Alisisitiza kuwa lishe bora ni muhimu kwa afya njema na kuzuia magonjwa mengi. Mariam aliahidi kufuata ushauri huo.

Je, ni ushauri gani daktari alimpa Mariam kuhusu ulaji wake?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Kupunguza mafuta na kuongeza matunda na mboga

Kifungu kinasema 'Daktari alimshauri Mariam apunguze kula vyakula vyenye mafuta mengi na kuongeza ulaji wa matunda na mboga'.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Kupunguza mafuta na kuongeza matunda na mboga

Kifungu kinasema 'Daktari alimshauri Mariam apunguze kula vyakula vyenye mafuta mengi na kuongeza ulaji wa matunda na mboga'.

sentence order B1

सेंटेंस बनाने के लिए नीचे शब्दों पर टैप करो
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Watoto wanapenda kula matunda

This sentence means 'Children like to eat fruits.' The verb 'kula' (to eat) is used here in its infinitive form after 'wanapenda' (they like).

sentence order B1

सेंटेंस बनाने के लिए नीचे शब्दों पर टैप करो
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Niliona mama akila chakula jikoni

This sentence translates to 'I saw mother eating food in the kitchen.' 'Akila' is the present continuous form of 'kula' for the third person singular (she/he).

sentence order B1

सेंटेंस बनाने के लिए नीचे शब्दों पर टैप करो
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Je, mtakula samaki leo jioni?

This question means 'Will you (plural) eat fish this evening?' 'Mtakula' is the future tense form of 'kula' for the second person plural.

multiple choice C2

Which of the following proverbs best captures the metaphorical usage of 'la' in a sophisticated Swahili context, implying consumption of ideas or situations?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Kula chumvi nyingi (To eat much salt – to have lived long and gained experience)

The proverb 'Kula chumvi nyingi' metaphorically uses 'kula' (to eat) to signify the consumption of life experiences over a long period, leading to wisdom, which is a highly abstract and sophisticated application of the verb.

multiple choice C2

In a philosophical discussion, if one were to say, 'Ni muhimu kula maarifa mapya kila siku,' what would 'kula maarifa' most accurately convey at a C2 level?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: To actively assimilate and integrate new knowledge, making it one's own.

At a C2 level, 'kula maarifa' goes beyond mere reception. It implies a deep engagement and internalization of knowledge, making it part of one's understanding and perspective.

multiple choice C2

Consider the sentence: 'Wanasiasa wanapaswa kula matunda ya sera zao.' What is the most profound interpretation of 'kula matunda' in this political context?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: To bear the ultimate responsibility and face the far-reaching outcomes, both positive and negative, of their governance.

At C2, 'kula matunda' in a political context implies a deep sense of accountability and the full experience of the repercussions, good or bad, of one's actions and decisions.

true false C2

In Swahili literature, if a character is described as 'amekula maneno,' it always implies they have literally consumed written words.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: गलत

At a C2 level, 'amekula maneno' (literally 'he has eaten words') idiomatically means that a person has broken their promise or gone back on their word, rather than a literal act of consuming text.

true false C2

The phrase 'kula kiapo' (to eat an oath) in a legal setting solely refers to taking an oath, with no deeper implications about its veracity.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: गलत

At C2, 'kula kiapo' (to eat an oath) often carries the strong connotation of swearing falsely or breaking an oath, implying deceit rather than simply the act of taking an oath.

true false C2

When discussing the consumption of resources, 'kula raslimali' at a C2 level can be interpreted to mean the judicious and sustainable utilization of resources, rather than just depletion.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: गलत

At a C2 level, while 'kula' can have nuanced meanings, 'kula raslimali' (to eat resources) in the context of resource consumption typically implies exploitation or depletion, often with negative connotations of unsustainability, rather than judicious use.

writing C2

You are a food critic reviewing a new Swahili restaurant. Describe your dining experience, focusing on what you ate (using various conjugations of 'kula') and the overall quality of the food. Use at least 75 words.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

Jana usiku nilipata fursa ya kukula katika mgahawa mpya wa Swahili 'Viungo Tamu'. Nilipofika, nilikaribishwa vizuri. Kwa kuanzia, nilikula supu ya samaki ambayo ilikuwa motomoto na yenye viungo vya kupendeza. Baadaye, nilikula wali wa nazi na kuku wa kukaanga. Kuku alikuwa amepikwa vizuri sana, na nyama ilikuwa laini. Marafiki zangu pia walikula pilau na mboga za majani, na wote walisema chakula kilikuwa kitamu sana. Ni dhahiri kwamba mpishi anajua jinsi ya kupika. Nitarejea tena kukula hapa hivi karibuni.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing C2

Imagine you are giving advice to a foreign visitor about eating habits and food culture in Tanzania. Explain when, what, and how people typically eat ('kula') in different social settings. Include traditional meals and etiquette.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

Unapokuwa Tanzania, utagundua kuwa kula ni sehemu muhimu ya utamaduni. Kawaida, watu hula chakula cha asubuhi, mchana, na jioni. Kwa kifungua kinywa, mara nyingi wanakula chapati na chai, au mkate. Kwa chakula cha mchana na jioni, wengi hula wali na maharage, au ugali na mboga au nyama. Ni muhimu kukumbuka kuwa katika familia nyingi, watu wanakula kwa kutumia mikono, hasa mkono wa kulia. Kabla ya kula, ni adabu kuosha mikono. Pia, katika mikusanyiko ya kijamii, ni kawaida kwa wageni kualikwa kula na wenyeji. Usikatae ofa ya chakula, kwani inaonyesha heshima. Kula pamoja huleta watu karibu na kujenga uhusiano mzuri.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing C2

You are writing a short story about a character who has a peculiar relationship with food. Describe their unique eating habits ('kula') and how these habits affect their daily life and interactions with others. Focus on expressive language.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

Aisha alikuwa na tabia isiyo ya kawaida ya kula. Siku zote alikuwa anakula vyakula vyake kwa mpangilio maalum, akianza na mboga zote, kisha protini, na mwisho kabisa wanga. Hakuweza kukula kama vyakula hivyo vilichanganyika kwenye sahani yake. Rafiki zake walimwona kama mtu wa ajabu na mara nyingi walishangaa jinsi anavyoweza kukula polepole sana, akitafuna kila kipande cha chakula kwa uangalifu mkubwa. Tabia hii ilimfanya apende kukula peke yake, au katika maeneo ambapo watu hawakumwangalia. Ingawa alitaka kujumuika, wasiwasi wa jinsi wengine wangemwona alipokuwa anakula ulimzuia. Kula kwake kulikuwa zaidi ya lishe; ilikuwa ni ibada ya kibinafsi, iliyojaa sheria zake mwenyewe.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
reading C2

Kwa nini Bi. Asha alijulikana sana katika kitongoji chake?

Read this passage:

Katika kitongoji cha Pwani, Bi. Asha alikuwa akijulikana kwa ujuzi wake wa kupika. Kila Jumamosi, alikuwa akiandaa chakula kingi na kuwalika majirani zake. Watoto walikuwa wakifurahia sana ugali na mchuzi wake wa samaki. Vijana walipenda sana chapati zake laini, na wazee walithamini uji wake wa ulezi. Siku moja, aliamua kukula chakula chake chote peke yake, jambo lililowashangaza wote.

Kwa nini Bi. Asha alijulikana sana katika kitongoji chake?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Alikuwa mpishi mahiri na mkarimu kwa majirani.

Asha alijulikana kwa 'ujuzi wake wa kupika' na 'kuwalika majirani zake' kula, akionesha ukarimu wake na uwezo wake wa kupika.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Alikuwa mpishi mahiri na mkarimu kwa majirani.

Asha alijulikana kwa 'ujuzi wake wa kupika' na 'kuwalika majirani zake' kula, akionesha ukarimu wake na uwezo wake wa kupika.

reading C2

Abiria walifanya nini ili kupunguza njaa na uchovu wao?

Read this passage:

Safari ya kwenda Dar es Salaam ilikuwa ndefu na yenye changamoto. Baada ya masaa kadhaa barabarani, abiria wote walikuwa wamechoka na njaa kali. Walisimama katika kituo kimoja kidogo ambapo kulikuwa na mama mmoja akiuza mihogo ya kukaanga na chai. Watu walianza kukula mihogo kwa haraka, wengine wakinywa chai ili kupunguza uchovu. Kila mtu alitaka kukula haraka ili waweze kuendelea na safari yao.

Abiria walifanya nini ili kupunguza njaa na uchovu wao?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Walikula mihogo ya kukaanga na kunywa chai.

Passage inasema 'Watu walianza kukula mihogo kwa haraka, wengine wakinywa chai ili kupunguza uchovu,' ikionyesha walikula na kunywa.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Walikula mihogo ya kukaanga na kunywa chai.

Passage inasema 'Watu walianza kukula mihogo kwa haraka, wengine wakinywa chai ili kupunguza uchovu,' ikionyesha walikula na kunywa.

reading C2

Ni athari gani hasi ya kilimo cha kisasa imetajwa katika kifungu?

Read this passage:

Kilimo cha kisasa kimebadili sana jinsi tunavyokula. Zamani, familia nyingi zilikuwa zikikula kile tu walichokipanda. Sasa, kutokana na usafirishaji bora na teknolojia, tunaweza kukula matunda na mboga kutoka sehemu mbalimbali za dunia wakati wowote wa mwaka. Hata hivyo, baadhi ya wataalamu wanaonya kuwa tabia hii mpya ya kula inaharibu utamaduni wetu wa chakula cha asili.

Ni athari gani hasi ya kilimo cha kisasa imetajwa katika kifungu?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Kuharibika kwa utamaduni wa chakula cha asili.

Kifungu kinasema 'baadhi ya wataalamu wanaonya kuwa tabia hii mpya ya kula inaharibu utamaduni wetu wa chakula cha asili.'

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Kuharibika kwa utamaduni wa chakula cha asili.

Kifungu kinasema 'baadhi ya wataalamu wanaonya kuwa tabia hii mpya ya kula inaharibu utamaduni wetu wa chakula cha asili.'

sentence order C2

सेंटेंस बनाने के लिए नीचे शब्दों पर टैप करो
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Waliambiwa kula chajio kwa haraka kabla ya giza.

This sentence means, 'They were told to eat dinner quickly before dark.' The structure places the verb 'kula' (to eat) after the instruction.

sentence order C2

सेंटेंस बनाने के लिए नीचे शब्दों पर टैप करो
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Licha ya kuzuiwa, wanafunzi waliamua kula mchana nje.

This sentence translates to, 'Despite being forbidden, the students decided to eat lunch outside.' The phrase 'kula mchana' (to eat lunch) acts as a single conceptual unit.

sentence order C2

सेंटेंस बनाने के लिए नीचे शब्दों पर टैप करो
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब: Mwalimu aliwashauri wazazi kuwahimiza watoto wao kula matunda.

This means, 'The teacher advised the parents to encourage their children to eat fruit.' The infinitive 'kula' (to eat) follows the encouragement.

/ 54 correct

Perfect score!

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