Words by MXhosa
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IsiXhosa is a Nguni language that is spoken in South Africa and some parts of Zimbabwe. It is the language with the clicks.
Example
Ndithetha isiXhosa ekhaya.
I speak Xhosa at home.
Ingqithi is a Xhosa custom of amputating the joint of the little finger, or of the ring finger on babies and sometimes adults.
Example
My finger is like this because I have ingqithi.
Ukuqabula is an informal Xhosa term for taking out babalaas. Basically the act of drinking the morning after a heavy night of drinking.
Example
I'm dying from babalaas now, ndifuna ukuqabula.
Yihlo is a Xhosa term for father or dad. It can also used informally to refer to a male friend or male family member.
Example
Hlonipha uyihlo no nyoko.
Respect your dad and mom.
Umkhonto is a Nguni term or word for a spear (the weapon).
Example
Ndicela undinike umkhonto wam.
Can you please give me my spear.
Sisekakeni is a general Xhosa phrase that means we are in trouble. It directly translates to "we are in shit" or "we are in deep shit"
Example
Friend: The petrol prices went up again.
Me: Sisekakeni
Isithembu is the practice of marrying multiple wives (Polygamy).
Example
Isithembu is becoming popular again in South Africa.
Igwijo or amagwijo are Xhosa songs that are usually sung in events such as sporting events or traditional events. They are sometimes made up on the spot.
Example
I'm only going to that game for amagwijo.
Johannesburg also known informally as Jozi, Joburg, or "The City of Gold", is the largest city in South Africa. The city was established in 1886 following the discovery of gold on what had been a farm
Example
My friends from Johannesburg don't know anything about struggle.
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