Here’s a list of 25 basic Swahili phrases for beginners:
Greetings
- Jambo! – Hello!
- Habari? – How are you?
- Nzuri! – Good!
- Asante! – Thank you!
- Karibu! – Welcome!
Common Expressions
- Tafadhali. – Please.
- Samahani. – Excuse me / I’m sorry.
- Ndio. – Yes.
- Hapana. – No.
- Sijui. – I don’t know.
Introductions
- Naitwa… – My name is…
- Wewe unaitwaje? – What is your name?
- Ninatoka… – I am from…
- Ninaishi… – I live in…
Asking Questions
- Unazungumza Kiswahili? – Do you speak Swahili?
- Kuna shida? – Is there a problem?
- Wapi? – Where?
- Lini? – When?
- Nini? – What?
Directions
- Kushoto. – Left.
- Kulia. – Right.
- Mbele. – Forward.
- Nyuma. – Backward.
Farewells
- Kwaheri! – Goodbye!
- Tutaonana! – See you later!
Conclusion
These phrases will help you engage in basic conversations and navigate common situations in Swahili-speaking regions. Happy learning!