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Free English-Bemba Dictionary: A-M

english bemba dictionary cover image  500x822
english bemba dictionary cover image 500×822

Learning to speak Bemba language can be fun if you have some help. In this post we start our journey to populate an online English-Bemba Dictionary, in alphabetical order. The Bemba dictionary is not comprehensive but contains the more commonly used words.

 

If there are particular words you want to translate please feel free to leave a message below. If you speak Bemba and would like to participate, get in touch with us with suggestions about how you wish to participate.

Your comments and corrections are most welcome.

If you want to translate English to Bemba you can send in your word and we will do our best to include it in the Bemba dictionary. Or if you simply cannot wait until we get to the word you want to learn because it appears under the letter “Z” let us know and we will translate it for you.

Remember that we want to include all other Zambian languages here. So if you speak Lamba, Lozi, Tonga, Nyanja, Tumbuka, Chokwe, or any other Zambian language, you can start the ball rolling by sending in a few words at a time and we will add it to our database. You can translate Bemba or another language into English and vise versa.

The following table covers letters of the alphabet from A  to M

Click on a letter of the alphabet to get to the appropriate section of the English to Bemba dictionary:

A , BC, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M

 

N, O, P, Q, R, S, T, U, V, W, X, Y, Z

(For Free English to Bemba Translation Service click here)

Coming soon: O – Z

 

__________________

Click on a letter of the alphabet to get to the appropriate section of the English to Bemba dictionary:

A , BC, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M

N, O, P, Q, R, S, T, U, V, W, X, Y, Z

_______________________

166 Thoughts on Free English-Bemba Dictionary: A-M
    Melissa
    1 Apr 2011
    11:49am

    Hello,
    some years ago I´ve lived in Zambia and I´ve learned a bit Bemba, but never how to write it. I am searching for the Bemba translation of "we" and "us". I know the word but not the correct spelling.
    I would be so thankful if you could help me.
    Greetings Melissa

    7
    4
      Editor
      1 Apr 2011
      11:21pm

      Hi Melissa,
      “We” and “us” are personal pronouns that overlap in Bemba.

      We = Ifwe (pronounced “if” + “way”: ifway) / Tu (pronounced “too”)
      Us = Ifwe / tu

      Examples:
      We are coming tonight = “Tuleisa mu cungulo (early night)” or “Tuleisa ubushiku.” (late night)
      We have come = “Twaisa” or “Tuleisa”
      We want = “Tulefwaya”
      We can do this = “Kuti twacita ici”
      We are going (to a place) = “Tuleya”
      We will go = “Tukaya”
      We are going to (do) = “Tuka….”

      Among us = “Muli ifwe”
      Give us = “Tupeni”
      Belongs to us = “Yesu”
      It is us = “Nifwe” (pronounced “knee”+”foo” + “way”)
      It is not us =”Tefwe”

      These are only some examples we hope will be useful. If you have specific phrases in mind, please let us know.

      P/S Are you the Melissa who has posted those nice Youtube videos of Kitwe?

      16
      3
        Gerald Chisongo
        27 Jul 2022
        5:19am

        Dear Sir, thank you for this platform.

        How do you say that “something is not old-fashioned” in Bemba?

        Regards,

        Gerald

        5
        0
      Lute Justine
      4 Feb 2022
      8:58am

      We or us is translated as ‘IFWE’

      1
      0
    Brent
    8 Apr 2011
    2:26am

    For some reason, I can only scroll down to the term 'Dysentery' How do I access the rest of the dictionary?

    3
    0
      Editor
      8 Apr 2011
      7:35am

      Hi, Thanks for your enquiry. The dictionary is being added to on a weekly basis. This week we will be adding the words starting with the letter “E”. The slow progress has been due to a shortage of man/woman power. We’ll get to “Z” soon.

      3
      0
        JS
        5 Nov 2012
        9:54pm

        You can now get the complete dictionary on Smashwords.com by clicking on the image of the dictionary above.

        3
        1
    Ron Cross - the 'General'
    21 Apr 2011
    11:13am

    A very big thank you to those that have put in the hard work.
    I look forward to seeing the G-Z section completed.
    I passed through Kitwe and must compliment you on a lovely city.

    1
    0
      JS
      5 Nov 2012
      9:53pm

      Hi Ron,
      Thank you for your encouraging comments.
      We love Kitwe.

      1
      0
        Jm
        25 Sep 2023
        8:44am

        What does the word imiseela mean in English

        0
        0
    David Kitching
    5 May 2011
    9:38am

    Hi
     
    Many thanks for this excellent dictionary. I have a stupid question though..what are the words in the third and fourth columns? Thanks.

    3
    1
      Editor
      5 May 2011
      11:08am

      Thanks for your kind comments. We believe there is no such thing as stupid questions – only stupid answers.
      The words in the second and third columns are alternative words that mean the same thing.
      When we get round to the Bemba-English dictionary, for instance, it will show:
      SHITA (Bemba word) with BUY (2nd column) and PURCHASE (3rd column)

      2
      1
      Cosmas Ngoma
      19 Dec 2021
      10:26am

      What is ilomba in English??

      3
      0
    elle
    17 May 2011
    8:08am

    nalikutemwa mami wandi

    1
    1
      Editor
      17 May 2011
      11:56pm

      Nalikutemwa mami wandi = I love you, my lady( / my girl).

      1
      0
    Tumie
    30 Jun 2011
    5:50pm

    What is good night my love in Bemba.Help me to also help myself how do i access a complete dictionary so i dont always have to log on for translations

    0
    0
      JS
      5 Nov 2012
      9:50pm

      Hi Tumie,
      “Goodnight my love” = “Sendamo mutende wecitemwikwa candi.”

      You can click on the image of the dictionary above in order to access a sample of the complete dictionary. You can also purchase the complete dictionary on Smashwords.com

      0
      0
    colletta chandika
    9 Jul 2011
    4:41pm

    I enjoyed you web page. Dilema I have is that a Nigerian friend has asked me to translate for him a document from Bemba to English as part of his assignment programme.

    I’m stuck as there are words like attrition and retention, participant, sustainability.

    2
    0
    Editor
    9 Jul 2011
    11:41pm

    Hi Colletta,

    There are certainly some terms for which there is no direct translation into Bemba. The context may help to circumnavigate this difficulty.

    If the request is in form of a complete sentence, it is much easier to work on a helpful translation.

    Send us your piece and we will give you a feedback on what we can do with it. If you don’t mind posting it here, let us know and we can post it so that other readers can help translate it.

    0
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    amanda
    16 Aug 2011
    10:38pm

    kafwako in english please (SPOKEN FROM A MAN TO A WOMAN)

    and how do u say I MISS YOU in bemba

    thanks

    2
    1
      Editor
      17 Aug 2011
      11:54pm

      We find it difficult to figure out “Kafwako” when taken out of context.

      “I miss you” = “Ndekufuluka” (singular), “Ndemufuluka” (plural).

      1
      0
        Kerrony
        8 Dec 2021
        8:27am

        I give thanks to all, but what I want to say is that, when will u complete this dictionary coz I want to have in my phone.

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    Dylan
    26 Jul 2011
    12:32am

    Hello

    Im struggling to access the online English to Bemba dictionary, would it be possible to translate the following into Bemba for me please:

    “Just look around you” / “Just look around”

    Thanks
    _______________

    “Just look around” = “Mona” (“Moneni” – plural)

    (Editor)

    0
    0
    Fi Silverman
    13 Oct 2011
    1:02am

    How do you say (to someone you have just met/polite)…
    -please help us
    -come
    -follow me
    -he is your husband
    -he is not my husband
    -he is sick
    -eat now
    -sleep now
    -my house
    -my family
    -he will help you
    -thank you
    -God bless you
    (can you email me back with the answers?)

    1
    0
      JS
      5 Nov 2012
      9:16pm

      Come = Isa (singular), Iseni (plural)
      Follow me = Nkonka (s), Nkonkeni (p)
      He is your husband = Mûlume obe (s), Bâlume benu (p)
      He is not my husband = Temulume wandi (s), Tebalume bandi (p)
      He is sick = Mûlwele (s), Bâlwele (p)
      Eat now = Lya nombaline (s), Lyeni nombaline (p)
      Sleep now = Sendama nombaline (s), Sendameni nombaline (p)
      My house = Iɧanda yandi
      My family = Ulupwa lwandi
      He will help you = Alâmwafwilisha (s), Balâmwafwilisha (p)
      Thank you = Natôtela (s), Twatôtela (p)
      God bless you = Lesa akupâle (s), Lesa amupâle (p)

      1
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    Madeleine
    3 Dec 2012
    9:30am

    Hi

    I posted this question in reply to a reply, but did not get an answer. Maybe this will work…?

    Thanks for the previous translations! You’re a great help. I still have some words I am not sure about when I consult the dictionary:

    free, the adj. (as in I am free)
    flow, the noun (as in a flow)
    live, the verbe (as in I live)
    And:
    Is mumana (stream) the noun or the verbe? I am interested in the verbe.
    Is shibula (awake) the adj. or the verbe? I am interested in the adj.?
    Is pindulula (change) the noun or the verbe? I am interested in the noun.

    Thanks again,
    Madeleine

    0
    0
      Editor
      4 Dec 2012
      1:54pm

      Hi Madeleine,

      Sorry, your query slipped in under the radar.

      Free (adj) = Lubuka
      “I am free” = “Nalilubuka”

      Flow (noun) = Mulonga (singular), Milonga (plural)

      Live (verb) = Ikala
      “I live in Kitwe” = Njikala mu Kitwe
      “We live in Kitwe” = Twikala mu Kitwe
      He / She lives in Kitwe = Ekala mu Kitwe
      They live in Kitwe = Bekala mu Kitwe

      Stream (noun) = Mumana
      Stream (verb) / Current = Mulonga

      Shibusha (verb) = Waken
      Shibuka (adjective) = Awake

      Pindulula (verb) = Change something
      Pinduluka (noun) = Undergo change

      2
      0
    Megan
    7 May 2012
    12:15am

    I would like to know what the Bemba word is for 'enough' or 'sufficient'. For example, 'God's grace is sufficient/enough'. Thank you!!!

    0
    0
      Editor
      8 May 2012
      1:01am

      Enough = Linga, Fula
      God’s grace is sufficient” = “Uluse lwakwa Lesa lwaliba ulwalinga.”

      0
      0
    nito
    9 Feb 2012
    6:59am

    Hi,
     How do I say "happy birthday" to a friend in bemba?
    thanks

    0
    0
      Editor
      9 Feb 2012
      2:53pm

      “Happy Birthday” = “Sefyeni ubushiku mwafyelwe” (Plural)
      = “Sefya ubushiku wafyelwe” (Singular)

      0
      0
    Kudah
    29 Feb 2012
    12:12pm

    this is quite a good site, helpful as well. I was wondering where can I get a hard copy of the English Bemba dictionary. you can e-mail me the info or post it on my web page.
    thank you

    0
    0
      Editor
      3 Mar 2012
      1:57am

      Hi Kudah,
      Thanks for your appreciation of KitweOnline.
      The KitweOnline Dictionary will soon be available in print.
      You can also get a dictionary from Amazon.

      0
      0
    dr Ntumba
    1 Mar 2012
    6:12pm

    we need to lean more about your culture

    1
    0
      Editor
      3 Mar 2012
      1:17am

      Dr Ntumba,
      Thanks for your suggestion.
      You will be pleased to note our latest article is on Zambian marriage ceremonies.
      We hope to cover much more Zambian culture in future.

      1
      1
    GS
    6 Aug 2011
    3:01am

    Please translate this for me into bemba:

    I long to have you by my side always

    To feel the warmth of your touch and embrace

    I hope to see you soon because I really miss you.

    0
    0
      Editor
      6 Aug 2011
      4:31am

      “I long to have you by my side always” = “Nkabila ukuba mupepi naiwe lyonse”
      “To feel the warmth of your touch and embrace” = “Ukumfwa icikabilila chobe ilyo wankumya noku nkumbatila”
      “I hope to see you soon because I really miss you” = “Nde tetekela nkakumona panshita inono pantu ndekufuluka sana.”

      1
      1
    Me.
    20 Aug 2011
    7:50pm

    Hello, can u translate:
    Hello brother, I started to study a little Bemba but just want to say that I miss u and all my brothers. Please say a little prayer for my daddy that is in the hospital had a minor surgery but hasn’t got out. Take care n lots of love

    Thank you

    0
    1
      Editor
      21 Aug 2011
      1:19am

      “Hello brother, I started to study a little Bemba but just want to say that I miss you and all my brothers” = “We ndume, ndesambilila icibemba lelo ndefwaya fye ukukwishibisha ukuti ndekufuluka, pamo naba munyina bonse.”

      “Please say a little prayer for my daddy that is in the hospital had a minor surgery but hasn’t got out. Take care and lots of love.” = “Ndekulomba ulempepelako ba tata abacili mucipatala umo baile babombela, tabalati bafume. Wikale uwaicingilila we citemwikwa.”

      0
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    Peter
    21 May 2012
    3:14am

    Hi
     
    thanks for your efforts!
     
    surely soon i will go to live to Zambia,at least for a huge amount of time,so please,can you translate me that into bemba?
    ''i miss you my sister,i really want to meet you''
     
    thanks in advance
     
    p.s.just one more question,why i can only scroll to 'medicine',and not more words in the 'm'?

    0
    0
      JS
      5 Nov 2012
      9:12pm

      Hello Peter,
      ”I miss you my sister,I really want to meet you” = “Ndekufuluka we nkashi yandi, Ndefwaisha ukukumona.”

      0
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    Simon
    29 Aug 2012
    11:41pm

    What do the words of this song mean?

    Bana baka ntwa maela nkalala pi mamilambo
    mumilambo bana baka ntwa maela (not sure about the spelling)
    Any help would be wonderful 🙂

    0
    1
      Editor
      3 Sep 2012
      11:23pm

      Hi Simon,
      We have asked around but could not get an answer for you. We have no idea what it means.
      We’ll keep looking.
      If one of our readers has some idea, perhaps they will tell us what the song means.

      0
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    Alice
    20 Jun 2012
    4:04pm

    You've done an admirable job typing up all these translations. But don't you think you should acknowledge what I assume is the original source? You seem to follow Rev Hock's dictionary very closely.

    0
    0
      Editor
      21 Jun 2012
      10:32pm

      Alice,
      Thanks for your comment.
      Rev. Hock’s dictionary along with The White Fathers’ Bemba-English dictionary are the two long standing works in this field. We have acknowledged Rev. Hock’s dictionary in the ebook version of our dictionary.
      Our emphasis is on the commonly spoken version of Bemba on the Copperbelt and along the line of rail in Zambia. This is heavily influenced by other languages (Lamba, Ushi, English, e.t.c.). Technological terms provide another challenge that we have only begun to address.

      0
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    Chileshe J K
    6 Jul 2012
    11:54am

    I must say this is a very commendable job you are doing. Kindly help me translate the word "purpose" in Bemba.

    0
    0
      Editor
      7 Jul 2012
      12:44am

      Hi Chileshe,
      Thanks for your comments.
      “Purpose” can generally be translated as “Umulandu.”
      This is a word that can be used in different ways. It is easier to determine if it’s the best word when used in a particular sentence.

      0
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        Lumuna kimanwa Adolphe Thiers Adams
        16 Sep 2022
        11:27pm

        Purpose can also be ” ubuyo” as objective”
        Thanks.
        Adams Lumuna
        French-Bemba teacher in DRCongo

        0
        0
    Andrea
    27 Jul 2012
    8:24am

    Thanks for this dictionary, I have been begging my husband to teach me but he is too busy now I can self study and practice on him 🙂

    0
    0
      Editor
      27 Jul 2012
      9:11am

      Hi Andrea,
      Thanks for dropping by. We look forward to your active participation in the lessons.
      Send in your short phrases and sentences. We will do our best to translate them.
      You can also send suggestions about what lessons you would like to see.

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    julian
    1 Aug 2012
    3:14am

    how do you say
    Listening To The Great Teacher?
    i appreciate all of your assistance

    0
    0
      Editor
      1 Aug 2012
      11:27pm

      Julian,
      “Listening to the Great Teacher” = “Ukukutika kuli Kafundisha Mukalamba.”

      The translation depends on who is involved as well as the tense. Here are a few examples:

      “I am listening to the Great Teacher” = “Ndekutika kuli Kafundisha Mukalamba”
      “I was listening to the Great Teacher” = “Nalekutika kuli Kafundisha Mukalamba”
      “He/She is listening to the Great Teacher” = “Alekutika kuli Kafundisha Mukalamba” (singular), “Balekutika kuli Kafundisha Mukalamba” (plural)

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    Madeleine
    28 Nov 2012
    12:24pm

    Hi

    What is the Bemba translation for:
    conscious living
    true self
    now
    everything flows

    Thanks,
    Madeleine

    0
    0
      Editor
      29 Nov 2012
      1:30am

      Hi Mdeleine,
      “Conscious living” = “Ubwikalo bwa maano”
      “(My) true self” = “Ine wine”
      “(Your) true self” = “Iwe wine”
      “Now” = “Nomba”
      “Nowadays” = “Shino nshiku”, “Muno nshiku”
      “Everything flows” = “Fyonse filapita”

      0
      0
        Madeleine
        30 Nov 2012
        12:30pm

        Hi

        Thanks for the previous translations! You’re a great help. I still have some words I am not sure about when I consult the dictionary:

        free, the adj. (as in I am free)
        flow, the noun (as in a flow)
        live, the verbe (as in I live)
        And:
        Is mumana (stream) the noun or the verbe? I am interested in the verbe.
        Is shibula (awake) the adj. or the verbe? I am interested in the adj.?
        Is pindulula (change) the noun or the verbe? I am interested in the noun.

        Thanks again,
        Madeleine

        0
        0
    Alena Křivánková
    6 Jan 2013
    6:30am

    Good morning.
    Could you please translate these sentences for me?
    “Konse uko,naba kusha ulweko iwe”
    “ba lusaka ta bonfwa bale fwaya na ma sisters babo”
    “Eku mwabo? ule konka naiwe boi”

    And is there any possibility to get full version of online dictionary?

    Thank you very much. A.K.

    0
    0
      JS
      11 Jan 2013
      10:58am

      Hi Alena,
      “Konse uko” sounds like a question in this context, meaning “All that?”
      “Nabakusha ulweko iwe” = “You have been left high and dry” (Abandoned)
      “Ba Lusaka tabonfwa” = People from Lusaka (or a person called Lusaka)are naughty.
      “Balefwaya nama sisters babo” = “They are even hitting on their own sisters”
      “Eku mwabo?” = “Is that his/her home?”
      “Ule konka naiwe boi” = Depending on the emphasis on “Ule”, this can mean “You should follow him/her, my friend” or it can mean “You have to follow him/her, my friend”.

      You can get the Full English-Bemba Dictionary on Smashwords: http://bit.ly/KOL_Dictionary

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    Langa
    31 Oct 2012
    7:46am

    How can I say I am feeling jealousy on Bemba

    0
    0
      Editor
      31 Oct 2012
      9:20am

      Hi Langa,
      “I am feeling jealous” is “Naumfwa kaso”
      “Akaso” means jealousy/jealous

      0
      0
    BEST
    2 Nov 2012
    2:58pm

    could you please give the words for the ff: I , MY, MINE,IS, Pls use the in sentences like JOHN IS MY LOVE, JOHN MY LOVE, JOHN MY EVERLASTING

    0
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      JS
      5 Nov 2012
      11:01pm

      Hi Best,
      We have made a start on your request with our latest Bemba Lesson.
      http://bit.ly/Bemba_I_Me_My
      Your feedback will be most welcome.

      0
      0
    Chola
    15 Nov 2012
    7:31am

    what is a better translation of the following Words..
    1. interviews
    2. programme

    0
    0
    Trevor yumbe
    23 Nov 2012
    5:24pm

    I want 2 get that bemba dictionary.

    0
    0
      Editor
      24 Nov 2012
      7:28pm

      Hi Trevor,
      Thanks for your interest in the dictionary. You are the lucky winner of a free copy for November. When I tried to send it to you on the email address you provided, it was not possible. Please send me the correct address and I will mail your FREE copy.

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      0
    Minnie
    2 Dec 2012
    2:15pm

    Hi

    How do you say “My roots” in bemba? Or in other zambian languages?

    0
    0
      JS
      3 Dec 2012
      9:20am

      Hi Minnie,
      “My roots” mu ciBemba is “Mishila yandi”

      0
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    Chawe
    7 Feb 2013
    7:53am

    i would like to find the proper bemba transalation for the traditional barter system based on exchange commodities based what i have is called Amakau ( things to barter) also what is correct bemba translation for Gifts of the heart or passion ( one’s natural passion)

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    andrew
    24 Feb 2013
    4:30am

    I lived in Mporokoso for 1 year and the young men in the market would compliment my work partner on her upper leg of thighs. They were being playful with her at the time but I’ve completely forgotten the term they used. What might that word have been?

    0
    0
      JS
      11 Mar 2013
      2:50am

      Could the word be “Legi“? Pronounced “Leggy”

      0
      0
    Sara
    5 Apr 2013
    4:39am

    How do you say Thank you for being a friend, for listening, and for your advice. Your a good friend to me.
    In Bemba
    Thank you

    0
    0
      JS
      8 Apr 2013
      3:17pm

      Sara,
      You can say
      “Thank you for being a friend” = “Ndetasha wecibusa candi”
      “for listening” = “Ulamposako amano ngandeshimikaka ilyashi”
      “and for your advice” = “No kumpandako amano”
      “You are a good friend to me” = “Uli cibusa wacine”

      0
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    Alena
    3 May 2013
    4:45pm

    Hi,

    I would like to know what means: “Ninshi mulecita?Ala cikawama nga twamonana.”

    Thank you.

    0
    0
      JS
      7 May 2013
      12:58pm

      Hi Alena,
      “Ninshi mulecita?” is “What are you doing?” – (plural/respectful)
      “Ala cikawama” = “It will be good/nice”
      “Nga twamonana” = “When/if we meet.”

      0
      1
    Mirriam Gondwe
    17 Jun 2013
    1:11pm

    What do the bemba names Mwila and Nkatya mean?

    0
    0
    Alyshia
    5 Jul 2013
    10:58pm

    Hello,

    I would like to know how to say “Do not be afraid to go where it beckons you to go” in Bemba. I was told two different translations for this a long time ago and I would just like to get a second opinion to clarify. 1 -“Mwitina ukuya uko lilemisontelala ukuya” and 2- “Mwitina ukuya uko cilemusotelela ukuya “. Are either of these translations correct? Looking forward to hearing from you.

    Alyshia

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      JS
      6 Jul 2013
      12:20am

      Hi Alyshia,

      Both versions of the interpretation can be used, depending on what the “it” refers to.

      The difference is reflected in the “limusontela” and cilemusontela.”
      Different prefixes refine the reference to the subject: li…, ci…, fi…., tu….,ba….., etc.

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        Alyshia
        9 Jul 2013
        10:41pm

        Oh, okay I understand now. In the phrase, the “it” refers to something that is drawing you in a certain direction or calling to you….maybe a feeling.

        In this case, which prefix do you think would be more appropriate?

        Also, is the correct spelling for both: lilemusontela and cilemusontela? I think I spelled them incorrectly in the first message.

        Thank you so much for helping me with this translation. I greatly appreciate it!

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          JS
          10 Jul 2013
          12:26am

          Alyshia,
          Different emotions have different prefixes. Examples:
          Envy = Akaso (Wikonka uko akaso kalekusontela = Don’t follow the direction your envy is pointing you)
          Joy = Insansa (Konka uko insansa shobe shilekusontela)
          Sorrow = Ubulanda (Mona uko ubulanda bulekusontela)
          Exasperation = Icifukushi (Mona uko icifukushi chobe cilekusontela)

          Other words are similarly dependent on the prefix:
          Luck = Ishuko (Mona uko ishuko lilekusontela)
          etc.

          Finally, lilemusontela and cilemusontela are correct.
          Lilekusontela (singular), Lilemusontela (Plural), Cilekusontela (sing.) and Cilemusontela (pl.).

          I hope this helps to clarify the explanation.

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    Lazarous Chewe
    1 Aug 2013
    12:21pm

    Poison Mu Cibemba

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      JS
      1 Aug 2013
      2:53pm

      Hi Lazarous,
      “Poison” = “Cinkolwankolwa” or “Busungu”

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    Chanz
    15 Aug 2013
    9:44pm

    Hi what does Moye mean in english? Is it Maiden?

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      JS
      17 Aug 2013
      11:53pm

      Hi Chanz,
      I am not sure what “Moye” means. I hope one of our readers will come up with a suggestion.

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        Kunda Londa
        6 Sep 2013
        11:12pm

        I think Moye should be a Ngoni word for Nacisungu (Virgin)

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          JS
          9 Sep 2013
          2:14pm

          Kunda,

          Thanks for your contribution.

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    bonnie
    17 Aug 2013
    9:56pm

    Hi JS,

    I am dating a gentleman from Zambia & would like to learn bemba. This site has helped me out a bit.

    Thank you

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      JS
      17 Aug 2013
      11:55pm

      Bonnie,
      I am happy to hear you are finding KitweOnline useful.
      Thanks for your feedback.

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    Emmanuel Musenge
    6 Sep 2013
    11:16am

    what is Voluntary in Bemba?

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      Joseph Mwila Bwembya
      6 Sep 2013
      1:59pm

      Voluntary-Ukuipelesha fye. (Umulimo wakubomba fye ukwabula ukucetekela amalipilo ayene yene) nangu cakuti kuti walipilwako kanono akakukutasha pafyo wabomba.

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      Kunda Londa
      7 Sep 2013
      3:43am

      Voluntary- Ukuitendekela ukucita cimo ukwabula bambi ukukweba nangu ukupatikishiwa. Eg. Voluntary Counselling and Testing = Ukuitendekelako we mwine weka ukuya sambilila amano no kupimwa pa bulwele ukwabula ukulolela bambi ukukweba nangu ukukupatikisha.

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    Emmanuel Musenge
    6 Sep 2013
    12:20pm

    What is the meaning of the word “form” as in a document in Bemba?

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    Emmanuel Musenge
    6 Sep 2013
    1:18pm

    what are the word interview and signature in Bemba?

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    Runyararo
    9 Sep 2013
    11:23am

    This is great site, thank you for putting it together, I am learning Bemba and Nyanja so I will be making this my home. Thanks again from Zimbabwe.

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    Terrence T
    31 Oct 2013
    8:19am

    hi js im dating a zambian lady and i would love to learn the bemba language

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      JS
      1 Nov 2013
      8:52pm

      Terrence,
      Please feel free to send in suggestions of any particular things you would like covered in the lessons. I am in the process of structuring a course that will be available in the new year.

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    Trevor yumbe
    30 Nov 2013
    11:24am

    I want a bemba english dictionary,where can i get it thanks.

    1
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      JS
      7 Dec 2013
      11:20pm

      Hi Trevor,
      You can get an electronic version of the dictionary from Smashwords. It’s only available as an ebook:
      https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/158704?ref=drjs

      The second edition will be ready in the new year and will be available as a print copy in addition to the ebook.

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    Annie Bweupe
    20 Feb 2015
    8:23am

    Hi, I would like to know how they say ” I understand how you feel” in Bemba,thank you !

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    joseph sinkala
    6 Aug 2015
    8:18pm

    keep it up

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      JS
      10 Aug 2015
      9:34pm

      Thanks ba Sinkala.

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    Brit
    10 Sep 2015
    7:16pm

    A friend of mine was recently blessed with the name “Changwe Ngosa”. What does that name mean? and under what circumstances does a Zambian bless someone?

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    Timothy Hulembe
    16 Nov 2015
    8:21pm

    Could you please put the remaining letters in the alphabet. We are waiting.

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    Burton
    17 Nov 2015
    5:47pm

    president in bemba
    2)- chief justice
    3)- judge

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      John chama
      12 Aug 2018
      11:54am

      kateka

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    Burton
    17 Nov 2015
    5:48pm

    president in bemba
    2)- chief justice
    3)- judge

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      Pamtech
      25 Feb 2020
      10:15pm

      President = Kateeka
      Chief justice =
      Judge = Kapingula

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        Rupert Chimfwembe
        11 Jun 2022
        11:59am

        Chief Justice – Kapiingula Mukalamba.

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    Jack
    29 Dec 2015
    7:28pm

    “The great I am” in bemba

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    B mulyata
    30 May 2016
    5:34pm

    what is ulusonga(plant )in English

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      JS
      30 May 2016
      8:05pm

      Hi Mulyata. “Ulunsonga” is the Bemba name for the milk bush plant commonly used as a hedge around houses.
      Wikipedia gives the following:
      “Euphorbia tirucalli (also known as aveloz, firestick plants, Indian tree spurge, naked lady, pencil tree, pencil cactus, sticks on fire or milk bush).”

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    able
    16 Sep 2016
    8:17pm

    what is in’gombe iyanakashi and iyaume in bemba?

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      D. Chishimba
      28 Dec 2017
      12:48pm

      Hi, ing’ombe iyanakashi is “cow”

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    JS
    31 Oct 2016
    5:12am

    Hi Collin,
    “Wood” = “Umuti”
    “Woods” = “Imiti” / “Impanga”
    “Fire wood”(many pieces) = “Inkuni”
    “Firewood”(one piece) = “Ulukuni”

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    Collin Hunt
    30 Oct 2016
    7:48pm

    What is the Bemba word for wood?

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    Maggie mwamba
    21 Nov 2016
    12:25pm

    what Cinnamon in bemba?

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    momo
    21 Dec 2016
    8:27pm

    What is ukulela in english

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      JS
      28 Jan 2017
      5:42am

      Hi Momo,
      “Ukulela” = to cradle, suckle, bring up(a child).

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    Francis Bweupe
    13 Dec 2019
    3:20am

    What does the sentence “Bali pa chuti “ mean

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      JS
      24 Dec 2019
      6:22am

      “Chuti” = Holiday.
      “Bali pa chuti” = They are on holiday (on leave)

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    alfred mulenga
    16 Nov 2019
    11:21am

    the bemba name for wood is “inkuni”

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    Kelvin
    2 Jan 2020
    7:03am

    What does “kapoli” mean?

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    Kelvin
    2 Jan 2020
    6:51am

    What does the word “kapoli” mean?

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      JS
      2 Jan 2020
      8:27am

      Kapoli = Wild pig (Inkumba = domestic pig)

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        Kelvin
        7 Jan 2020
        2:25pm

        Oh I was clueless..thanks a lot

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    Jess
    13 Feb 2020
    3:44pm

    What does ‘Kanabesa’ mean?

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      Rupert Chimfwembe
      11 Jun 2022
      12:07pm

      Not just one meaning, Jess.
      For example:
      Kanabesa – Chief/king
      Kanabesa – important one/manager/ favoured one/ privileged one, etc
      Kanabesa – rich one

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        JS
        12 Jun 2022
        10:41am

        Rupert, thanks for pointing out these very important points.

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    ulubunda
    5 Feb 2020
    12:09pm

    Bedroom = Kukati atemwa Kucipinda

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      Raphael
      11 May 2020
      4:20pm

      Ulubunda musana
      Tekuchipinda.

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    Stephen
    19 Feb 2020
    8:17pm

    Send me the names of bicycle parts in Bemba

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    Elijah Banda
    6 Mar 2020
    5:59pm

    What does chiute mean

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    Jack B Kalipenta
    10 Jun 2020
    12:39pm

    chuti came from duty. So when workers or miners were off-duty, it became pa chuti. Hence “bali pa chuti” is supposed to be bali “off-duty”: on leave or holiday

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    Simusika
    9 Jul 2020
    9:23am

    what is ulukobo in english

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    Sonny
    13 Jul 2020
    9:47am

    What is intuntulwa in english

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    Sonny
    13 Jul 2020
    9:49am

    How do you say “walamponya” in english

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    Njavwa nakamba
    15 Jul 2020
    2:16pm

    How cn u write the following words in bemba:declaration ,approva,abstract ,table of content & reference

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    Carestone chimanga
    11 Jan 2021
    8:17pm

    I need this book in my pdf

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    Ian Townsend
    30 Jan 2021
    10:21am

    Thank you for this dictionary!
    I lived in Mufulira 1972-5 and visited Zambia frequently between 1995 and 2015, mostly to Kitwe. Zambia has been significant in my life, for which I am grateful. I hope I will be able to visit a few more times to see my Zambia friends.

    Will you be making a ichiBemba-English dictionary, or making your online dictionary searchable?

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    Chishala Norbet
    18 Feb 2021
    6:28pm

    Its very helpful to us learners

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      Gilbert Siame
      5 Jul 2021
      4:47pm

      Kindly help with bemba words for;
      1. Influence
      2. Impact

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    Judith Kalale
    10 Mar 2021
    2:38am

    Meaning of integrity in bemba

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    James musonda
    11 Mar 2022
    9:54pm

    Good evening May you help me to translate this word in bemba compromise

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      JS
      12 Mar 2022
      11:53am

      Compromise = Ukumfwana

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    kim Bantiyan
    1 Jun 2022
    9:01am

    Hello Sir, my name is Fr. Kim and now learning iCibemba on my own time. I’m currently in Kabwe. Do you have a hard copy of this Dictionary ( a second edition until Z if possible)? I would love to purchase a copy. You can send me through P.O Box then I can send the money through mobile or bank account…Thank you in advance.

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      JS
      1 Jul 2022
      12:30pm

      Hi Fr. Kim. Thanks for your inquiry. As of June 2022, we do not have a dedicated hard copy of the 2nd edition on sale.
      We hope to have both eBook and Hard Copy for our 3rd edition which is still in the works.

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    KK
    16 May 2021
    3:23pm

    Ulushishi nefwani what does it mean

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    Christopher Malama
    15 Feb 2022
    5:32am

    Nachiwamasana indefwaya ukuwishiba ichisungu nefyo chilepilibula chibemba nalishiba

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    Leonard Zimba
    21 May 2023
    4:07pm

    I am so thankful for this site. I would love for you to finish the rest if positive, this site has been very useful for me as I learn.

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      JS
      24 Jun 2023
      6:41pm

      Hi Leonard.
      We are glad you find these lessons valuable. We will continue to add more.

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    Ignatius Kamfwa
    17 Jun 2021
    8:11pm

    What is Grace and Mercy In bemba

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    Pulecharles
    19 Jun 2021
    9:23am

    Fridge=
    Fan=

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    Pulecharles
    19 Jun 2021
    9:21am

    Please i am kindly asking this dictionary on my email.
    i am from kashikishi.

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    Sylvester
    2 Jan 2023
    8:36am

    Hello sir, highly appreciate & recommend the initiative of the platform as it is really helpful & building, hat’s off!
    I wanted to find out the true meaning of a bemba saying which goes, (not sure if the words/spellings are correct, but the sequence should help)…
    “Chilamuntu nechiwa chakwe.”
    Thanks in anticipation!

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    Allyce chengo
    26 Feb 2023
    7:04pm

    Hello Sir, kindly assist me with the word “ukucenjelesha ” word in English.

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      JS
      28 Feb 2023
      10:33am

      Hi Allyce,
      cenjela = clever
      uku = to (be)
      sha = very
      ukucenjelesha = to be very clever.
      This is different from ukucenjesha which means to teach someone a (unpleasant) lesson.

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    Chipili mwamba
    25 Jan 2022
    7:02am

    What is ukutumuka in english

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      Rupert Chimfwembe
      11 Jun 2022
      11:55am

      “Ukutumuka” is “bursting into a bigger fire/bigger flames”.

      “U ku tumuka” (kindly note my spelling) refers to fire. That is, fire suddenly burning more strongly.
      “Burst”, on the other hand, can be used in other situations, as in “burst out laughing”.

      So “U ku tumuka”, in its current usage, is situation-specific and is used only regarding fire. However, as language is dynamic, it is possible that some day, there will be “u ku tumuka mu ku kula” (“bursting out in growth”, to mean “suddenly growing much faster”).

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    LW
    7 Nov 2021
    10:35pm

    Thank you for this. Would someone be able to transalte “The blood of Jesus brings peace in this evil world.”?

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    Kafula Mushili
    12 Sep 2021
    12:50pm

    Hi, Thank you very much for the wonderful work of language preservation that you are doing. Would you kindly help me out with the meaning of Uku laisha in ici Ngeleshi. Your timely response will highly be appreciated

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      JS
      15 Sep 2021
      1:34pm

      Hi Kafula. “Ukulaisha” = to Relay (news / information or an object)

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    onyukwu orike
    7 Jul 2022
    10:27am

    What is the meaning of Da Bukata in Bemba language, can someone help me with the meaning please?

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    Mwalimu Simfukwe
    20 Nov 2022
    12:41pm

    Hi. I’m wondering how I can get access to this book either buying it or soft copy.
    I’m currently in Kabwe and I need the book to be able to learn the language.

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    Boyd pakome
    18 Nov 2021
    1:50pm

    I would like you to continue working in this manner and also work on french please please may bless you

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    nishangan
    1 Feb 2022
    3:57am

    Hi, thanks you very much this wonderful work
    I am asking for
    “Mwamena kwabene” this word what is meaning

    Thanks

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    Ask_snr
    14 Jul 2023
    1:50am

    Looking for a bemba word for A WONDER is it Busungushi or Busungusho?

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    0

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