Signification
Being a thief or prone to stealing.
Contexte culturel
In local neighborhoods, calling someone a thief directly can lead to 'mzozo' (a big fight). Using 'mkono mrefu' is a way to gossip or warn others while maintaining a veneer of linguistic politeness. Historically, in the spice trade, 'mkono mrefu' referred to merchants who would sneak extra goods or shortchange others. It was a mark of shame in the merchant guilds. While Sheng has many words for stealing (like 'kuiba', 'kuriba', 'kupiga ngeta'), the classic 'mkono mrefu' is still understood by older generations and used in formal Swahili news broadcasts in Kenya. During weddings, guests are often warned subtly to watch their gifts and belongings, as 'mkono mrefu' can even strike during celebrations.
Context is King
Never use this to describe a tall person's arms. It is a serious accusation of theft.
Noun Class Agreement
Remember that 'mkono' is Class 3. If you talk about multiple thieves, use 'mikono mirefu'.
Signification
Being a thief or prone to stealing.
Context is King
Never use this to describe a tall person's arms. It is a serious accusation of theft.
Noun Class Agreement
Remember that 'mkono' is Class 3. If you talk about multiple thieves, use 'mikono mirefu'.
Polite Accusation
Use this phrase if you want to be less aggressive than calling someone a 'mwizi' (thief) directly.
Teste-toi
Fill in the missing word to complete the idiom.
Yule kijana ana mkono _______.
'Mrefu' (long) completes the idiom meaning 'thief'.
What does 'Kuwa na mkono mrefu' mean in a social context?
Maana ya 'mkono mrefu' ni:
The idiom figuratively means to be a thief.
Match the sentence to the correct situation.
Sentence: 'Kuwa mwangalifu na mkoba wako, hapa kuna watu wenye mkono mrefu.'
The sentence is a warning about thieves in a crowded place.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Kwa nini hupendi kumwalika Juma nyumbani kwako? B: Kwa sababu ana _______.
The context implies a negative trait that makes someone unwelcome.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
When to Use
Social
- • Gossip
- • Warnings
Family
- • Teaching kids
Media
- • News
- • Stories
Banque d exercices
4 exercicesYule kijana ana mkono _______.
'Mrefu' (long) completes the idiom meaning 'thief'.
Maana ya 'mkono mrefu' ni:
The idiom figuratively means to be a thief.
Sentence: 'Kuwa mwangalifu na mkoba wako, hapa kuna watu wenye mkono mrefu.'
The sentence is a warning about thieves in a crowded place.
A: Kwa nini hupendi kumwalika Juma nyumbani kwako? B: Kwa sababu ana _______.
The context implies a negative trait that makes someone unwelcome.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsYes, in 99% of cases, it refers to stealing. The only exception is the legal phrase 'mkono mrefu wa sheria'.
Yes, it is very common for parents to use this to correct children's behavior.
The plural is 'kuwa na mikono mirefu'.
No, it is a standard idiom used in news, books, and daily conversation.
This is exactly how you say it: 'kuwa na mkono mrefu'.
In some Arabic-influenced coastal dialects, it might, but 'stealing' is the primary meaning.
It is an accusation. Use it carefully, as calling someone a thief is a serious matter.
Yes, it is often used metaphorically for politicians 'reaching' into public funds.
No, 'long' is always associated with over-reaching. For generosity, use 'mkono wa heri'.
Only if you are saying 'Sina mkono mrefu' (I am not a thief), but even then, it's a bit informal for an interview.
Expressions liées
Mkono wa birika
similarStingy or a petty thief
Mdokozi
synonymA petty thief
Mkono mrefu wa sheria
builds onThe long arm of the law
Kushika mkono
contrastTo shake hands or help
