I'm learning Kiswahili

ujamii — meaning in English: society

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for society
kisima
kigogo
ndoto
ujamii
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Swahili for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
neutral common
Usage
Native speakers often use the word 'ujamii' in discussions about community issues, social structures, or during cultural events that celebrate societal values. For instance, you might hear it in conversations during local gatherings, political debates, or community development workshops where the focus is on collective well-being.
Synonyms & nuances
While 'ujamii' translates to 'society', a similar word, 'jamii', emphasizes the concept of community more closely. You would use 'ujamii' when discussing societal structures and roles, while 'jamii' is more appropriate for conversations focusing on neighborhood bonds and communal relationships.
Culture
'Ujamii' has deep roots in the Swahili language, stemming from the Arabic word 'jama'a', which means 'to gather' or 'to come together'. This evolution speaks to the importance of community and togetherness in Swahili-speaking cultures, highlighting how society is viewed as a collective unit rather than just a group of individuals.
FAQ
Q.What does ujamii mean in English?
'Ujamii' means 'society' in English, referring to an organized group of individuals living together in a community, sharing common laws, traditions, and values.
Q.How do you use ujamii in a sentence?
You can say, 'Kila mtu ana jukumu katika ujamii wetu,' which translates to 'Everyone has a role in our society.' This usage emphasizes individual contributions to the collective.
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using ujamii?
A common mistake is confusing 'ujamii' with 'jamii'. Remember that 'ujamii' refers to the overarching structure of society, while 'jamii' focuses on smaller community aspects.
Learn swahili with Maspeak →
Swahili Vocabulary