Meaning
Working hard or putting in serious effort.
Cultural Background
The concept of 'bidii' is central to the national motto 'Uhuru na Kazi' (Freedom and Work), popularized by Julius Nyerere. It suggests that political freedom is meaningless without the hard work to build the nation. In Kenya, 'bidii' is often linked to the 'hustle' culture. It is common to see 'Bidii' as a name for small businesses, like 'Bidii Hardware' or 'Bidii Posho Mill'. In the coastal islands, 'bidii' is often used in the context of religious and traditional education (Madrasa). It carries a sense of spiritual discipline. In Uganda, where Swahili is often a second or third language, 'kufanya bidii' is frequently used in trade and military contexts to command excellence.
The 'Sana' Boost
Always add 'sana' (very) to 'kufanya bidii' to sound more natural and enthusiastic.
Complimenting Others
Telling someone 'Wewe ni mtu wa bidii' is one of the best compliments you can give in East Africa.
Meaning
Working hard or putting in serious effort.
The 'Sana' Boost
Always add 'sana' (very) to 'kufanya bidii' to sound more natural and enthusiastic.
Complimenting Others
Telling someone 'Wewe ni mtu wa bidii' is one of the best compliments you can give in East Africa.
Don't over-conjugate 'Bidii'
Remember that 'bidii' is a noun. Only the verb 'fanya' changes its form.
Test Yourself
Fill in the correct form of the verb 'fanya'.
Mwanafunzi mzuri ____ bidii kila siku.
We need the present tense singular prefix 'a-' for 'mwanafunzi'.
Which sentence means 'We will work hard'?
Choose the correct translation:
The tense marker '-ta-' indicates the future tense.
Match the Swahili phrase with its English meaning.
Match the following:
These are the standard translations for these common variations.
Complete the dialogue with the most appropriate response.
A: Mtihani wa kesho ni mgumu sana! B: Usijali, ________________.
Encouraging someone to work hard (study) is the logical response to a difficult exam.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesMwanafunzi mzuri ____ bidii kila siku.
We need the present tense singular prefix 'a-' for 'mwanafunzi'.
Choose the correct translation:
The tense marker '-ta-' indicates the future tense.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
These are the standard translations for these common variations.
A: Mtihani wa kesho ni mgumu sana! B: Usijali, ________________.
Encouraging someone to work hard (study) is the logical response to a difficult exam.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questionsIt is neutral. You can use it in a business meeting or with your kids at home.
Yes, it's very common in the gym to mean 'pushing yourself'.
'Bidii' is more common in daily speech; 'jitihada' is slightly more formal and often used in plural (jitihada zetu).
Use the past tense marker '-li-': 'Nilifanya bidii'.
Yes, 'kukaza buti' (tighten the boots) is a popular slang equivalent.
Related Phrases
Kujitahidi
similarTo try one's best
Kutia bidii
synonymTo put in effort
Kujituma
builds onTo be self-motivated
Kazi kwa bidii
specialized formWork with effort
Kukata tamaa
contrastTo give up
