pesa — meaning in English: money

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pesa

kuvunjika moyo

nafsini

mwanfamilia

ujamii

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neutral very common

Usage

Native Swahili speakers often use the word 'pesa' in various contexts, such as negotiating prices at local markets or discussing financial matters with friends. You might hear it during casual conversations about saving money or when making plans for a weekend outing where costs need to be considered.

Synonyms & nuances

While 'pesa' is a general term for money, other words like 'fedha' (which means 'silver' and is often used to refer to currency) might be used in more formal or literary contexts. You would choose 'pesa' for everyday conversations and transactions where a casual tone is appropriate.

Culture

'Pesa' has its roots in the Arabic word 'bisa' which means 'money' or 'wealth'. In East Africa, especially in Kenya and Tanzania, the concept of 'pesa' is not just about currency but can also refer to value, making it a key term in daily exchanges. The term is deeply integrated into the culture, symbolizing both personal wealth and community resources.

FAQ

Q.What does the Swahili word 'pesa' mean?

'Pesa' means 'money' in English and is used to refer to currency or wealth in everyday conversations.

Q.How do you use 'pesa' in a sentence?

You can use 'pesa' in sentences like 'Nina pesa nyingi' which means 'I have a lot of money' or 'Tupe pesa' which means 'Give us the money.'

Q.Are there any mistakes to avoid when using 'pesa'?

It's important to remember that 'pesa' is uncountable in Swahili, so you wouldn’t say 'pesas' as you might in English. Stick to using 'pesa' regardless of the amount.

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Swahili Vocabulary