Meaning
Offering guidance to someone.
Cultural Background
In Tanzania, 'ushauri' is often sought from 'Wazee wa mtaa' (street elders) to resolve local disputes before going to the police. Advice is often given through 'Mawaidha' in mosques, focusing on moral and spiritual guidance. In Nairobi, 'ushauri' is increasingly professionalized, with many 'Consultancy' firms using the word in their branding. It is considered rude to reject 'ushauri' openly. Usually, one says 'Asante, nitafikiria' (Thanks, I will think about it) even if they don't plan to follow it.
Use the Object Infix
Instead of 'kwa mimi', use 'nitoe' (give me). It sounds much more native.
Avoid 'Fanya'
Never say 'fanya ushauri'. It is the most common beginner mistake.
Meaning
Offering guidance to someone.
Use the Object Infix
Instead of 'kwa mimi', use 'nitoe' (give me). It sounds much more native.
Avoid 'Fanya'
Never say 'fanya ushauri'. It is the most common beginner mistake.
Listen First
In Swahili culture, it is polite to listen to the whole 'ushauri' before responding, even if you disagree.
Test Yourself
Fill in the correct verb for 'giving' advice.
Mwalimu ana____ ushauri kwa wanafunzi wake.
In Swahili, the standard collocation is 'toa ushauri'.
Which sentence is the most natural way to ask for advice?
How do you say 'Give me advice'?
'Nipe' (Give me) is the imperative form used with 'ushauri'.
Match the Swahili phrase with its English meaning.
Match the following:
These are the four primary actions associated with advice.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Nina shida ya pesa. B: Pole. Ngoja niku____ ushauri.
'Tolee' is the applicative form of 'toa', meaning 'give to/for'.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesMwalimu ana____ ushauri kwa wanafunzi wake.
In Swahili, the standard collocation is 'toa ushauri'.
How do you say 'Give me advice'?
'Nipe' (Give me) is the imperative form used with 'ushauri'.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
These are the four primary actions associated with advice.
A: Nina shida ya pesa. B: Pole. Ngoja niku____ ushauri.
'Tolee' is the applicative form of 'toa', meaning 'give to/for'.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsYes, 'peana ushauri' is common in Kenya, but 'toa' is more standard and formal.
It is usually uncountable (like 'advice' in English). To say 'many pieces of advice', use 'ushauri mwingi'.
A consultant is called 'Mshauri'.
Use 'ushauri wa kisheria'.
Related Phrases
Toa mawaidha
specialized formTo give moral/religious advice
Fuata ushauri
builds onTo follow advice
Omba ushauri
contrastTo ask for advice
Mshauri
similarAn advisor/consultant
