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I Love you
Nalikutemwa = I love you.
Nalimutemwa = I love you (plural or addressed to someone older)
Nalikutemwa sana = I love you a lot
Elaborate means what in bemba
Ukulondolola
Hi , how do does one say “story” ?
Njeleleniko is sorry in english
Story = Mulumbe
Mwashibukeni mukwai, kwena ndelombako ubwafwilisho pamiseela Ili pesaamba apa
1. Ukwiminina manengwa manengwa emukuti shani?
2. Ukukata ekuti Shani?
3. Ukufwampuka emukuti shani?
Good morning chife am asking about vegetables names eg cabbage and group names thank you.
Hi Jackson. That’s a good suggestion. It would help if as many readers as possible come up with the names of vegetables they know.
happy birthday
We asked John Katebe (KitweOnline) about this one. He says:
“Our people didn’t seem to have a concept of birthdays. How could they, when time was marked by events? e.g. ‘Born when Makanta (locust) fell like water’.
No, I don’t know.”
Does any one know any better?
Please help me with this, how do you write the address in bemba? Does it change?
And when it comes to application letter, how do you write dear sir/ madam in bemba?
Kalata kuli ba tata nakula kuli bamayo
Kalata kuli ba tata na(kuli) bamayo = Letter to my father and (to my) mother
“Kalata kuli batata, nangula kuli bamayo.”
That ‘nakula’ should have been ‘nanguls’ for ‘or’.
White Buffalo
The Bemba word for Buffalo is “Mboo” (Rhymes with “bore hole”). We are not aware of a specific name for the very rare White Buffalo.
What is ichikonko in English?
Ninkufuluka sana we mutemwikwa wandi
please translate i missed you at the weekend
Ninkufuluka sana we mutemwikwa wandi = "I really miss you, my beloved."
“I missed you at the weekend” = “Nalimupusa pa Cibelushi.”
If you are on first name basis = “Nalikupusa pa Cibelushi.”
In Bemba there is no specific term for “Weekend”, therefore you would just have to specify “On Saturday” (pa Cibelushi) or “On Sunday”(pa Mulungu).
“Fuluka” (Long for) could be substituted for “Pusa” (Miss).
Weekend= pampela ya mulungu
thank you for your translation!
another one…please!
Wish you a day filled with many blessings!
“Best wishes for your new home. Love” = “Mwingile namapalo muɧanda ipya. Ne citemwiko”
Best wishes for your new home. Love
“Wish you a day filled with many blessings!” = “Mwende ubushiku bwapalwa”
please translate ‘a big hello from the Judge!’
“A big hello from the Judge” = “Kaputula wa milandu amucelela”
“Kapingula” can be used for “Kaputula wa milandu” (Judge)
How do you say “Spiritual Mother and Spiritual Father” in Bemba?
Natotela!
“Spiritual Mother” = “Nyina wa lubatisho”
“Spiritual Father” = “Wishi wa lubatisho”
Hi!
How would you say “Spiritual Mother and Spiritual Father” in Bemba ??? And What would be “To Church” ???
Thank you very much !
“To Church” = “Ku ɧanda ya Mulungu”
absence makes the heart grow fonder!
“Absence makes the heart grow fonder” = “Uushilipo alaleta ukufuluka”
I have noted some wrong grammar in selected translations. Although it true that languages evolve; The Bemba being used here is Bemba which evolved around the mining towns of the Copperbelt and has since spread to many towns of the country. It mixes languages from Luapula, Nyanja and Bemba itself. Here are potential errors arising from this:
– I thank you father = Namutasha tata AND NOT “Namitasha tata”. Second person plural in Bemba is “mu” not “mi” which is common in Nyanja
Shiwanya, you make a very good and valid point. Thank you for pointing this out.
We will make the necessary corrections. We also hope we can continue to benefit from your knowledge and the knowledge of other readers through your continuing participation.
Having grown up on the Copperbelt, we are grappling with some of the terms. We hope our readers will help with these translations. Please feel free to comment and translate with us.
Just wondering about “namutasha” as being some dialect of Bemba, and not as explained by Shiwaya. Note the diacritic marks on the syllables: withou mark or with back-leaning à as the default Low, and the forward-eaning á as the High.
Therefore, wouldn’t “naámításha” be for the honorific (respect), the plural (more than one), as well as the second person singular, for “I praise you”, while “nàamútáshá” mean “I have praised him/her.”
are you sure you will not miss me when you watch grand prix!
(if you were wondering, this is said in a joke context!!!) thank you, your translations are great!
“Are you sure you will not miss me when you watch grand prix?” = “Bushe tawanjibukishe ilyo uleya mukutamba ifyangalo?” (grand prix is interpreted as “games”)
Happy Anniversary
“Happy Anniversary” – There is no direct translation because events were not associated with named dates in traditional Bemba society. One suggestion is “Sefyeni pakwibukisha ubwinga” (for a wedding anniversary).
how can I say “Home is where my heart is”
translate
“a little”
“A little” = “…..nono”
“Akamuntu akanono” (A small person)
“Utubantu utunono” (small people)
“Incinga inono” (the smaller bicycle)
nine nalikutemwa. sana ulimukashiwandi lesa apela what does this mean??
“Naine nalikutemwa sana. Ulimukashi wandi, Lesa alimpela.” = “I love you too. You are my wife, God-given.”
Hi. I just discovered this website. Thank you for this great service. Could you possible translate the following for me?
I didn’t see anyone
I didn’t see anyone who reads books.
It is you (singular) that I will see tomorrow.
It is him that I will see tomorrow.
It is you (singular) who will read the book
It is we who will read the book
Thanks so much for your help!
“I didn’t see anyone” = “Nshacimona (umuntu) nangu umo” (Recent past), or “Nshamwene nangu umo” (Yesterday or distant past)
“I didn’t see anyone who reads books” = “Nshamwene nangu umo uubelenga ifitabo”
“It is you (singular) that I will see tomorrow” = “Niwe nkamona mailo” or “Nimwe nkamona mailo” (respectful, aimed at someone older – singular)
“It is him that I will see tomorrow” = “Ni ena nkamona mailo” or “Ni bena nkamona mailo” (respectful, said about someone older – singular)
“It is you (singular) who will read the book” = “Niwe ukabelenga icitabo” or “Nimwe mukabelenga icitabo” (respectful, aimed at someone older – singular)
“It is we who will read the book” = “Nifwe tukabelenga icitabo”
Hi Cant thank you enough for the great translations!
Natasha.(Thank you)
please can you translate
1. thank you for taking me to the ball
2. I miss you
3. you are my angel
4. have faith and confidence, follow your true heart’s desire
5. wish you were here
thank you so much!!! appreciated……..
“Thank you for taking me to the ball”= “Natotela pakuntwalako ku cila”
“I miss you” = “Ndekufuluka” (singular), “Ndemifuluka” (plural)
“You are my angel” = “Uli malaika wandi”
“Have faith and confidence, follow your heart’s true desire” = “Kwate cisumino nesubilo, konko kufwaya kwa mutima obe”
“Wish you were here” = “Kanshi auba kuno”
what does da kuyanda mean please (from bemba to english)?
and what does wakiwiky mean
thanks and regards
“Nda kuyanda” is not Bemba. It is Zambian Tonga for “I love you”
“Wakiwiky” is not Bemba, but we are not sure what it is.
wot does Amakula mean
Hi
I have read translations on this page and they have helped me tnx 🙂
can u please translate this :
you are the best time of my day,
my heart is yours,
you are my angel.
How do i say i love and and miss you so much in Bemba
i would like a list of daily common language english to bemba translation
“Home is where my heart is.” = “Ndafuluka ku mushi”
“You are the best time of my day” = “Ilyo ndi naiwe, ndasansamuka”
“My heart is yours” = “Walinkubulo umutima”
“You are my angel” = “Niwe malaika wandi”
“I love and miss you so much” = “Nalikutemwa, nokufuluka ndakufuluka sana”
Tumie,
We have some common terms explained here:
Visiting A Friend: http://kitweonline.com/kitweonline/discover-kitwe/culture/language/bemba-lesson-4-visiting-a-friend.html
Common Verbs:http://kitweonline.com/kitweonline/bemba-lesson-2-common-verbs.html
Instructions: http://kitweonline.com/kitweonline/discover-kitwe/culture/language/learn-ici-bemba-language-instructions.html
Feel free to ask specific words.
a huge thank you for your brilliant translations
Nothing happens by accident
I believe our paths were crossed for a purpose
i missed…….late night phone calls, 7am wake up calls and all those non work related emails!
nothing happens by accident as we are led to believe
please could you translate
I believe our paths were crossed for a purpose
i missed…….late night phone calls, 7am wake up calls and all those non work related emails!
nothing happens by accident as we are led to believe
You’re welcome, sja.
“Nothing happens by accident as we are led to believe.” = “Tekwesha ukusumina ukuti ifintu fiicitikila fye.”
“I believe our paths were crossed for a reason.” = Ine nalisumina ukuti kwaliba umulandu twakumanine.”
“I missed….midnight conversations, 7 am wake up calls and all those non-work related Emails.” = “Nalefuluka…ilyashi lya pakati kabushiku, ukunshibusha kumaca, namakalata ya ‘Email’ ayashali yakuncito.”
NB. We feel this translation would sound better in more poetic Bemba. Perhaps other readers will write in and give us different versions!
can you please translate:
can’t wait to see you, because when i’m with you, that’s the best time in whole week.
your eyes, your smile and your gorgeous body definitely is made by God, because only God can make such a beautiful body as yours.
your kiss and your hug makes me feel like i’m in different world.
Thank you so much. here are a few more commands for translation.
out
no
fetch
freeze
go
okay
give
shake
paw
down
law
Thank you so much, I'm sure there will be more soon.
“Out” = “Panse”
“No” = “Awe”
“Fetch” = “Lêta”
“Freeze” = “Iminina”
“Go” = “Kabiye”
“Okay” = “Cilifye”
“Give” = “Pêla”
“Shake (hands)” = “Posha” / “Shake(Tremble)” = “Tenta” / “Shake (e.g. wag tail)”(Transitive verb) = “Tensha”
“Paw” = “Lukasa”
“Down” = “Panshi”
“Law” = “Cêbo”
After going to Zambia in September, my husband and I have completely fallen in love with your people and with your country. We cannot wait to go back some day. The bush people in Kalulushi are the grandest people on God's green earth. Since we love your people and your language so much, we would like to train our dog in Bemba instead of English. Could you please translate for us? God bless. Twatotela!
Sit
lay down
Stay
Watch me
Roll over
come
Amanda,
It’s good to learn you had a positive experience.
Good luck with the dog training. Would your dog have to be bilingual for when you take a walk in the park?
“Sit” = “Ikala”
“Lay down” = “Lambalala”
“Stay” = “Shâla”
“Watch me” = “Ndolesha”
“Roll over” = “Kunkuluka”
“Come” = “Isa”
Hello, can you please translate this for me? Thank you!!
"You are being very disrespectful. Please stop saying nasty things to me and making me feel uncomfortable. I am sure that your wife would not be happy about this and neither would your boss. Please leave me alone. If you don't, I will report you."
hi your translations have helped me a lot, you are the best thanks 🙂 can you please help to translate this:
Baby I am really happy that I have met you and that we are together. I love you and I love your family too. Your family is really friendly and lovely and I want let you know that I love them. I am the happiest men on this world because I am in relationship with you. You have made my life brighter and happier. You are my angel and thanks to God that I have met you and your family.
TRANSLATION:
“Baby I am really happy that I have met you and that we are together”
= “We mwana, ine naliba nensansa pakusanga uwaba nga iwe, nokumona ngefyo tuli pamo”
“I love you and I love your family too”
= “Nalikutemwa, pamo nolupwa lobe lônse.”
“Your family is really friendly and lovely and I want to let you know that I love them”
= “Ba lupwa lobe baliba abansansa sana, bâsuma. Ndefwaya wishibe ukuti nalibatemwa”
“I am the happiest men on this world because I am in relationship with you”
= “Takwaba uwasansamuka ngaine mu calo conse, pamulandu wakuba naiwe”
“You have made my life brighter and happier”
= “Ulaleta ulubûto mumweo wandi, nokunsansamusha ulansansamusha”
“You are my angel” ”
= “Niwe mûngeli wandi”
“and thanks to God that I have met you and your family.”
“Nokutotela ndetotela Lesa pakutuleta pamo, iwe pamo nolupwa lobe”
Please translate this Bible verse into Bemba for me-
“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’
Matthew 25:40
Thank you!!!
“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
= “Imfumu pakwasuka ikabeba aiti “Namweba icinecine nati lilya lyonse mwaleafwilishako munyinane umo uwalebulililwa, ala nine wine mwaleafwa.”” Mathew 25:40
Na totela sana pa ma shiwi yonse yantu untumine,umitima wandi na umfwa bwino.kuti na temwa twai shibana bwino,pantu ule nde tela insansa mu bumi bwandi:-)
“Na totela sana pa ma shiwi yonse yantu untumine,umitima wandi na umfwa bwino.kuti na temwa twai shibana bwino,pantu ule nde tela insansa mu mu bumi bwandi” = “Thank you for your message, it has made me feel happy. I would love for us to get to know each other better because you bring joy in my life.”
Hi,
Could you pls translate this into English
It’s kind of a home work for me..
I know this is wrong that posting straight onto web and getting the answer
However you the only help:-)
Na totela sana pa ma shiwi yonse yantu untumine,umitima wandi na umfwa bwino.kuti na temwa twai shibana bwino,pantu ule nde tela insansa mu mu bumi bwandi:-)
The break down is like this:
“Na totela sana” = “Thank you very much”
“pa ma shiwi yonse” = “for all the words”
“yantu untumine” = “that you sent me”
“umitima wandi” = “my heart”
“na umfwa bwino” = “I feel good”
“kuti na temwa” = “I would like”
“twai shibana” = “We know each other”
“bwino” = “better”
“pantu” = “because”
“ule nde tela” = “you bring me”
“insansa” = “joy”
“mu bumi bwandi” = “in my life”
Please translate Kupusa bati
“Kupusa” is Nyanja for “Silliness”
“Bati” is a corruption of “But” and is used more as an exclamation than for any specific meaning.
How do you say "wake up and live" in bemba?
“Wake up and live”
= “Shibuka, ba umumi.”
(The second “U” in “umumi” is written with a caret (hat) to denote the “…moo…” sound)
please could you translate for me the phrase: " I hope that you have a beautiful day"
“I hope that you have a beautiful day.”
= “Mutandale bwino mubushiku bwelelo.” (plural)
can u please translate: your eyes, your smile and your gorgeous body definitely is made by God, because only God can make such a beautiful body as yours.
Thankyou for everything. I'll let you know how we get on in Zambia. Looking forward to it.
Can you translate:
Hello
I am sorry that I asked you if you have ever seen a walaby. If you can understand this, then I hope I am forgiven.
could you translate the phrase (what can we do) and (to do). I am going out to Zambia next July with a team from our church.
“What can we do?” = “Ninshi tungacita?”
“To do” = “Ukucita”
We wish you a memorable trip. You will be welcome to share your experiences here on KitweOnline.
I was on my way to the coop and told my Zambian friends to put into Bemba what I was doing.
Here are the answers:
Ndeya mukumona inkoko.
Naya mukumona inkoko.
First, what is the difference between Ndeya and Naya.
Second, why mukumona instead of ukumona is used.
Thank you.
“Ndeya” is a more descriptive form of the word which gives less sense of immediacy, as in “I will be going to …..”
“Naya” is used to give a sense of “Now.”
“Mona” = “See”
“Ukumona” = “To see” (the act of seeing). Verb infinitive
“Uku…” is the prefix of the noun “mona”
“Mukumona” : “Mu…” is used as a transitive verb, indicating the speaker’s involvement in the action.
“Naya mona inkoko” written as “Naya mone nkoko.” is a more direct and quite correct way of saying it.
Thank you very much! it helped a lot
Can you translate "little tiger" and "strong ox"?
Also can you translate "the large one" Thank you so much! ( I meant the large one as a name. I know its not a good name so if you have another name for a someone who is big can you tell me please?)
Thank You soooooo much!!!! 😀
Sorry to ask again but can you also translate "small fox"? I would really appreaciate it!!!! Thank you
Also can you translate "the large one" Thank you so much! ( I meant the large one as a name. I know its not a good name so if you have another name for a someone who is big can you tell me please?)
Thank You soooooo much!!!!
Shut up and work
Your so hot you make the sun melt
Tom you and chris are my beat friends
Fool
Never touch my chicken
“Shut up and work” = “Talala. Bomba”
“Your so hot you make the sun melt” = “Icikabilila cobe cilasungulula nakasuba.”
“Tom you and chris are my best friends” = “Tom, iwe na Chris nimwe banandi sana.”
“Fool” = “Ciwelewele” or “Cipuba”
“Never touch my chicken” = “Tekwesha ukwikata pa nkoko yandi”
Could you please translate "little tiger"? Thank you so so much! 😀
“Little tiger” = “Akabwili” (“Little leopard” – Tigers are not found in Zambia. We are not sure if there is a name in Bemba)
“The large one” = “Ikalamba” (“A person who is stout” = “umuntu uwa tuuluka” or “umutuulushi”)
“strong ox” = “Mutungu”
“Small fox” = “Ka mumbwe” or “Ka nkusa”
Hello 😉 I have asked for your translations before and they have helped me a lot 🙂 thanks 🙂 I would like to ask for some more translations if it’s 🙂
Could you translate: I wish I would have beautiful singing voice because than I would sing love songs for you.
I love to woke up every day by knowing that i’m with you, I hope that our relationship will last for long time, I’m ever, forever yours.
If you could translate all that, that would be amazing! 🙂 thanks 😉
” I wish I would have beautiful singing voice because than I would sing love songs for you.” = “A nkwata ishiwi lyakwimbilamo iliusuma nga nda kwimbila inyimbo sha citemwiko”
“I love to wake up every day knowing that I’m with you” = “Lyonse nganashibuka mutulo, cilampela insansa ukwibukisha ukuti uli mutemwikwa wandi.”
“I hope that our relationship will last for long time” = “Mpepa fye ukuti icitemwiko cesu ciletwalilila.”
“I’m forever yours.” = “Ndi obe pe na pe”
Hi There
I've only discovered your website a week ago and your dictionary translations have helped a lot in my understaning of the Bemba language. I'm in a relationship with a Zambian man and we have a daughter, i would love for her to learn her father's native language. We live in South Africa, Pretoria and would like to know if there are any Lessons or classes that one can attend to learn how to speak Chibemba fluently?
Your response will be highly appreciated
Thank You
Hi Mbali, thanks for visiting our website. Our hat off to you for wanting to make sure your daughter claims her heritage fully.
At the moment there appears to be no one offering Bemba lessons at the moment.
KitweOnline is currently working on simple lessons. Look out for more lessons here.
Your input as to what you would like to see in our forthcoming Bemba course will be appreciated.
Hi, would it be a problem if I posted your website on my facebook page??
Also, I have something that I’d like you to translate for me please…
Really simple I hope.
“I loved you first, and I’ll still love even when he doesn’t”
Hi Jordan, we tried to find your Facebook profile. Can you email us your Facebook name?
“I loved you first, and I’ll still love even when he doesn’t” = “Nine nabalilepo uku kutemwa. Nelyo ena akaleke ukukutemwa, icitemwiko candi cikatwalilila.”
Hi, can you please translate to Bemba, " will you marry me?" Thank you very much for this service. I am American with a Zambian girlfriend and your service has helped me a lot.
“Will you marry me?” = “Iwe nacisungu wandi, bushe kuti twaupana?”
hi:) jus wana say thanks for your website, it has really helped me communicate with some of my friends that arent south african
please can you translate this for me? i hope it will not be too much
the more i try to love you less, the more my love for you grows,
you couldnt love me even if you tried, you wouldnt love me even if i cried.
they say that God is love, then why does God hurt me so much?
thanks
The more I try to love you less, the more my love for you grows
Nganati njeshe ukukupata, elyo cilecilamo ukukutemwa
You couldn’t love me even if you tried
Nangu walyeseshe ukuntemwa, iwe teti untemwe
You wouldn’t love me even if I cried
Nangu nali lilile tekuti untemwe iwe
They say God is love, then why does God hurt me so much?
Batila Lesa kutemwa, nganinshi kanshi Lesa alentaluka?
Hi!!!!!! Hey listen, what you do here is great, I really appreciate people like you. The fact that you are here and you make yourself available to help others? God Bless you
Thanks for your kind comments Jordan.
We hope more people will get involved with comments and discussions about various topics.
Awww,…….you guys are great. I love you all, my Zambian brothers. Yes, I hope to make it to your beautiful country one day.
By the way the writer's name is Dr. Derek (or Derrick) E. Sokoni. I lost touch with him and really hope to meet up with him one day.
Thank you. You people are just awesome. Yes, I really hope that I will make it to your beautiful country one day.
My comments posted twice – see how grateful I am? Hahaha!!!!
Could you please translate into bemba the following…." I love you today twice as much as I did yesterday, and only half as much as I will tomorrow."
” I love you today twice as much as I did yesterday, and only half as much as I will tomorrow.” = “Ukutemwa nkutemenwe lelo kwacila ifyo nakutemenwe mailo, ngatwafika muli mailo lyena elyo cikacilamo.”
how do you say forever sisters in the bemban language
“Forever sisters” = “Inkashi sha muyayaya”
Hi,
some 20 years ago a Zambian friend wrote a simple gospel song which I still "sing" to this day. From what I can remember, it sounded like this (just spelling in the way I used to sing it):
Mwemfumu Yandi, Mwemfumu Yandi
Ichina lyenu, lichindikwe
Mwekathula wandi, mwekachima wandi
Ichina lyenu, lichindikwe
Ichina lyenu, ichina lyenu
Ichina lyenu lichindikwe
Ichina lyenu, ichina lyenu
Ichina lyenu lichindikwe
Amano yandi, no muchima wandi
Umweo wandi, ndemipela
Amano yandi, no muchima wandi
Umweo wandi, ndemipela
Ichina lyenu, ichina lyenu
Ichina lyenu lichindikwe
Ichina lyenu, ichina lyenu
Ichina lyenu lichindikwe
Would be grateful if you can translate it for me. He actually gave me a pice of paper which contained its translation, but I've lost it. Thank you so much. I hope I can come to Zambia some day.
Chris.
Hi Chris, here's our interpretation of the hymn, with minor spelling adjustments. Mwemfumu Yandi, Mwemfumu Yandi My Lord, my Lord Ishina lyenu, licindikwe Praise be Thy Name Mwekatula wandi, mwekachema wandi My Creator, my Sheperd Ishina lyenu, licindikwe Praise be Thy Name Ishina lyenu, Ishina lyenu Thy Holy Name, Thy Holy Name Ishina lyenu licindikwe Praise be Thy Name Ishina lyenu, Ishina lyenu Thy Holy Name, Thy Holy Name Ishina lyenu licindikwe Praise be Thy Name Amano yandi, no mutima wandi My mind and my heart Umweo wandi, ndemipela My life, I offer Thee Amano yandi, no muchima wandi My mind and my heart Umweo wandi, ndemipela My life, I offer Thee Ishina lyenu, Ishina lyenu Thy Holy Name, Thy Holy Name Ishina lyenu licindikwe Praise be Thy Name Ishina lyenu, Ishina lyenu Thy Holy Name, Thy Holy Name Ishina lyenu licindikwe Praise be Thy Name P/S We hope you will visit Zambia some day.
Sorry.. Please rather translate to Bemba:
Welcome to Zambia! Missing you already!
“Welcome to Zambia! Missing you already!” = “Mwaiseni ku Zambia! Ndemufuluka!” (singular: “Ndekufuluka.”)
need help please translate to English – if inappropriate please feel free to e-mail me the answers
1) walapwisha ifyupo ka (were you)
2) kawilo na pilo
3) nge ko nachi nga chawama sana
4) kaonde
thank you
"Walapwisha ifyupo ka" = "At this rate, you will lead to the end of a marriage!"
"Kawilo na pilo" = "?"
"Ngeko naciba nga chawama sana" = "It would have been great had I been there"
"Kaonde" is a Zambian language from the North Western Province of Zambia.
Can you help me learn bemba? I don't need a traslation just now, but I would love to learn.
Joy,
That’s an interesting proposition. We will explore the possibilities.
It would help if other people who are also interested in learning Bemba wrote in with their suggestions about how they would like to go about it.
Can you please translate:
"Uncle, don't paint Auntie!"
“Uncle, don’t paint Auntie.” = “Yama, mwi lenga ba muka yama.”
N.B. “Muka yama” means “Uncle’s wife.”
Please I need your help to translate these words from English to Bomba:
Happy birthday, thank you for making my complete. I pray God gives your heart desires today and wish you all the very best…
Hi can you please translate:
you are the most beautiful girl in the world and I love you very much.
“You are the most beautiful girl in the world and I love you very much” = “Pali bonse abanakashi muno calo, iwe niwe wapwililika. Nalikutemwa nganshi.”
Please translate:
Mulimushe ka
Ndekutotela pakumpwishisho mweo
“Mulimushe ka” is Nyanja(not Bemba) for “You are ok.”
“Ndekutotela pakumpwishisho mweo” = “I thank you for making my life whole.”
hi can u please help and can u please translate:
your eyes, your smile and your gorgeous body definitely is made by God, because only God can make such a beautiful body as yours.
“Your eyes, your smile and your gorgeous body definitely is made by God, because only God can make such a beautiful body as yours” = Amenso yobe, uluseko lobe, nomubili uishaiwamina – fyonse ifi filelanga fye ukuti cacine ni Lesa Kabumba ewakupangile. Ni Lesa eka eunga panga umubili uwawama ifi.”
(Apologies for the long delay in translating this one).
Im Norwegian, and want to get a tatoo in Bemba.. and I want it to say: Faith, hope and love.
Can you translate please?:)
“Faith, hope and love” = “Cisumino, cisubilo ne citemwiko.”
are you also able to translate it to Tonga?
Trude,
Sorry we are currently unable to translate into Tonga. We hope this will be possible in the future.
please transalate for me
ndekufuluka sana,ndelolela ukubwela kobe kunganda,lesa alompala pakuti inshila shesu shi kimano, uli wandi
“ndekufuluka sana” = “I miss you a lot”
“ndelolela ukubwela kobe kung’anda” = “I await your return home”
“Lesa alepaala pakuti inshila shesu shi kumane” = “May God bless us so that our paths can cross again”
“uli wandi” = “You are mine”
How do you say '' Happy second anniversary. Love now, always and forever. Your wife'' in bemba. Thanks
Hi Maddy, there are two options
Respectful (plural):
Happy second anniversary = Sefyeni umwaka wa cibili
Love now, always and forever = Nimwe citemwikwa candi camuyayaya
Your wife = Nine mukashi wenu
Singular (also poetically):
Happy second anniversary = Sefya umwaka wa cibili
Love now, always and forever = Niwe citemwikwa candi camuyayaya
Your wife = Nine mukashi obe
How do you say "I like…"?
As in, "I like dogs," or "I like children."
“I like….” = “Nalitemwa……”
“I like dogs.” = “Nalitemwa imbwa.”
“I like children.” = “Nalitemwa abana abanono.”
please translate bwanji mkazi wanga? thank u so much
“Bwanji mkazi wanga” is Nyanja for “How are you my wife?”
Wow thanks a lot.. did I respond correctly by saying bwino? Please translate How is your day going and I’m really tired so I’m going to rest?
Charma,
Yes, you did reply correctly. Well done!
In Bemba the “B” in “bwino” is a soft one, while in Nyanja it is a hard “B” sound.
The Bemba translation for “How is your day going?” = Mwatandala shani? or “Mwabomba shani?” and
“I’m really tired so I’m going to rest.” = “Ninaka sana. Naya ntusheko.”
My needs are not being met and I think we should pray for guidance? Please translate
Hi,
could you please translate:
Hi my love, happy birthday. I wish you all the best for today and I hope that this birthday will be special and unforgettable for you. I love you and I will be always there for you. From my heart to your souls no-one will break my love chain that I got over you.
Thanks.
Emils, here’s an approximate translation:
Hi my love = We citemwikwa candi
happy birthday = Sefya ubushiku wafyelwe
I wish you all the best for today and I hope that this birthday will be special and unforgettable for you = Ndefwaya ukasekelemo mulyubu bushiku, icakuti tawakatale aubulaba
I love you and I will be always there for you = Icitemwiko candi câpe
From my heart to your soul = Ukufumya kumutima wandi, ukufika kumupashi obe
No-one will break my love chain that I got over you = Tapakabe ûkatala pasa icitemwiko candi.
How do you say 'plate' or something with a similar shape to a plate, something wide and flat and about the size of a man's hand?
Plate = mbale (The same word is used for a single plate and for many plates)
Coupe shaped plate (Shaped like a contact lens) = mbale yafongomana
Small plate = aka bale
Small plates = utu bale
Basin = ibeseni
P/S our KitweOnline electronic English-Bemba dictionary will be available for download to your phone on Amazon from 1st May, 2012.
This translation service will continue as usual even after that date.
hi, how do i say. hi honey how was your day? and i miss you already.
Jabulile, greetings can be varied depending on what the person has been doing:
“Mwabombeni” (for someone who has been working)
“Mwatandaleni” (for someone who has been resting)
“Mwaculeni” (for someone who has been unwell, or is bereaved)
If your love has just come back from work, you could say:
“We citemwikwa candi, mwabombeni.”
“I miss you already.” = “Ndekufuluka”
Hello my friend who is currently in Zambia wrote a letter to me and she signed ended a letter with the following phrase/sentence I was wondering if you knew what it meant:
Nalitemwisha sana
Thank YOU 🙂
“Nalitemwisha sana” = “I was very happy” or “I really love” (depending on the context)
I would like this translated please,
Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me….
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind, but now, I see.
Thank you very much.
God's Grace
Hello! Have not been here in a while. Still training the dog! Need a few more words, if you don't mind. 🙂 (Don't worry, these words are just for teaching the dog tricks, not for harming any one.)
Kill
dead
play dead
leave it
speak
Thanks! You are very helpful.
Kill = Ipaya
Dead = -fwa (e.g. He/she has died = Afwa. He/she is dead = Aalifwa)
Play dead = Fwa
Leave it = Leka
Speak = Sosa
What does CARDONA (or something like that) mean in English? Thank you! … I love this site by the way!
Thanks for your comments.
“Ka dona” is an informal form of speech meaning “Lady”
The use of “Ka” can be used to convey a sense of a slim lady, a pretty lady or an elegant lady.
please translate: "it's been four months now, you need to tell them. it's not right and i dont even think you have any excuses left. or are you waiting for the next one to arrive?" into Bemba
“It’s been 4 months now” = “Napapita imyeshi ine, nomba”
“You need to tell them” = “Ufwile wabêba”
“This is not right” = “Ici cilubo”
“I don’t even think you have any excuse left” = “Ine nshimwenepo nomulandu ungabepekeshamo”
“Are you waiting for the next one to arrive?” = “Bushe ulepembela pakêse naumbi?” (Could be clearer if we know WHO or WHAT we are talking about)
I have a friend who speaks Bemba and I like her a lot, in some weeks I try asking her 'I so really truly love you. I'm just so happy that I can make a smile on your face. Do you love me too? Would you like to be my girlfriend?'
Could you translate that and maybe some other bemba sentences that help me express my feelings towards the sweetest girl ?
“I so really truly love you” = “Nalikutemwa sana”
“I’m just so happy that I can make a smile on your face” = “Ulankubulo mutima ngawa mwentula”
“Do you love me too?” = “Bushe walintemwa?”
“Would you like to be my girlfriend?” =”Bushe kuti watemwa ukube cisankonde candi?”
“We luba lyandi” = “My flower”
“We cisankonde candi” = “My sugar cane”
Good friends of mine said to me
– "Kekeke, mune uyu mu bemba nkonko alekufwa lol. Mwine Luapula."
– Tukalalolela ukumfwako ifikakonkapo!
– Taufwa mune, ukutemwa uku concluda.
– Tawaishiba ati nshumfwa. Wishibe lelo.
– Busurisidisi. kikiki!
Could you translate this please? Thank you in advance.
“Mune uyu mu bemba nkonko. Mwina Luapula.” = “My friend, this one is a typical Bemba person, from Luapula”
“Tukalalolela ukumfwako ifikakonkapo!” = “We’ll wait to find out what happens.”
“Taufwa mune” = “You never listen, my friend.”
“Ukutemwa uku concluda” = “You like to jump to conclusions” (“Konkluda” is slang for “Conclusion”)
“Tawaishiba ati nshumfwa?” = “Don’t you know that I’m naughty?”
“Wishibe lelo” = “Well, now you know!”
“Busurisidisi” = ? (We have no idea what this means)
thank you soo much. oh lol, it's a baby. could you also please translate: " because i have said it time and time again but it just doesnt seem to sink in, in english"
please also translate: tapakabe nawumbi
Please tell me what are the Bemba words for:
– True
– False
“True” = “Ca cine”
“False” = “Bufi”
please translate BEST WISHES FOR YOUR INTERVIEW
“Best wishes for your interviews” = “Mukende bwino kuma “interview”” or “Mukende bwino kukweshiwa.”
There is no direct translation of the word interview we can find.
please can you translate for me in Bemba: you are my life without you there is no life, i thank God to send you in my life.you are everything for me my sweet heart.you and me forever.you are my strawberry my love.
“You are my life without you there is no life”
=”Niwe bûmi bwandi, ukwabula iwe tapali ubûmi”
“I thank God to send you in my life”
= “Ndetotela Lesa uwakuletele mu mweo wandi”
“You are everything for me my sweet heart.you and me forever. you are my strawberry my love”
=”Niwe weka, wecisankonde candi ica muyayaya” (This is an approximation)
.
how to say you are my love my everything its only that i love .in Bemba.
i love you my pretty wife you and me forever.
Good evening!
I was wondering if you could tell me how to say/write, " He hung the moon"
I thank you!
Have a wonderful evening!
Rejeana
“He hung the moon” (An idiom meaning “He is wonderful”) = Alimpesha maano
I would like to know the Bemba word for 'enough' in the context of "God's grace is enough (sufficient)". Thank you!
Hello,
I would like to have the phrase 'Forever in my heart' translated please
Thank you
Kate
‘Forever in my heart‘ = “Apapeleela kasuba, uli muntu wandi”
Does anyone know a website with cibemba proverbs? I can't find it anywhere. Namutotela mukwai. Julio
Hi Julio,
We, at KitweOnline, don’t know of any website that explains Bemba proverbs. It is one of the projects we hope to take on later this year.
If anyone would like to volunteer for the task, please contact us below.
Hello! Would you please translate this quote for me?
"He Hung the Moon"
Thank you!
Rejeana
Whoops! So sorry for the duplicate… I had meant to add to that phrase before you did the work.
Thank you so much for it by the way… it's beautiful.
What I was wanting to add was "Together they hung the moon" Or "They hung the moon"
Whichever is better.
Thank you SO much (gain) 😉
Rejeana
Hi, Im trying to learn bemba and would much appreciate your help with the following translation.
Chawama ukumfwa ati muli umutende. – I thought it may be along the lines of 'Glad to hear you are well'
Ba Lesa ba Pale – this I was completely unsure of.
Any help would be greatly appreciated
Thanks for the wonderful sight
Hi Geraint,
Congratulations. You got the first part right. It means exactly what you thought.
“Ba Lesa ba pale” means “God bless.”
Thanks for your encouraging comment.
Can you translate; "I think you're 23 years old" for me please x
“I think you’re 23 years old” = “Kwati uli ne myaka 23”
Can you translate from English to Bemba
Listening To The Great Teacher
Thank you
Dear editor, Where can I obtain or purchase a Bible in Icibemba in PDF or txt or doc format on line? Thank you. Natotela. Lesa akupele.
Hi i7ng,
There are a lot of free options. Most of them are packaged as Apps for different phone versions. One version that has the option for audio read back is : http://www.youversion.com/en-GB/mobile
You can find many others by searching for “Holy Bible for mobile” in Google Search.
We hope that helps.
Dear Editor:
I know that there is a concord between nouns and their modifiers in Bemba. It is easy for words like umutu which has a tangible prefix mu. But what troubles me are the ones without tangible prefixes like kafundisha and Lesa. My questions are:
1 How to say in Cibemba: a good teacher,good teachers and almighty God.
2 What is the meaning of Ninshi tungacita? and its sentence structure?
3 Why Kanshi auba kuno is translated as I wish you were here?
Thank you very much, best wishes.
Hi i7ng,
You are right. Modifiers make life easier when dealing with nouns.
One way to deal with nouns without modifiers is to tackle them on one at a time, the way you have done.
“A good teacher” = Kafundisha musuma
“Good teachers” = Ba kafundisha basuma
“Almighty God” = Lesa wa maka yonse
“Ninshi tungacita?” = What can we do?
There are words and phrases for which there is no direct translation from English to Bemba, and vice versa. The nearest translation can then be used.
“Kanshi auba kuno” is the nearest to “I wish you were here.”
The same Bemba words can mean something else in a different context, e.g.
“(Kanshi) auba kuno, ngawali mupokeleele” = “(in that case)If you had been here, you would have welcomed him/her”
We hope that helps.
Natotela pacafwilisho cobe.
Way to go, i7ng!
I have got SIX versions of what is your name in Bemba. Please tell me which one is correct or better or used more common. Thank you!
1, Nga imwe nimwe banani ishina lyenu?
2, Niwebo nani?
3, Niwebo nani ishina?
4, Niwe nani ishina lyobe?
5, Ishina lyobe niwebo nani?
6, Niwani ishina?
Sorry, when I surf the net, actually, I found three more, please, explain them for me, I am getting confused.
7, Ishina lyobe ni wani?
8, Ishina Lyenu nimwe ba nani?
9, Ishina lyenu imwe ni bani?
Hi Tom,
In Bemba the plural is used as a form of respect (Nos. 1,8 and 9). No. 4 is not grammatically correct.
There are many ways of saying the same thing. The simplest is best: “Ishina nimwe bani? (plural) or “Ishina niwani?” (singular).
“Niwani” is an abbreviation of “Niwe nani?” (Who are you?). You are more likely to hear “Niwani” in the village and “Niwebo nani?” in urban areas.
Here are translations close to the literal meaning of the words:
1, Nga imwe nimwe banani ishina lyenu? = What about you, what is your name?
2, Niwebo nani? = Who are you?
3, Niwebo nani ishina? = What are you called?
4, Niwe nani ishina lyobe? = What is your name?
5, Ishina lyobe niwebo nani? = Your name, what is it?
6, Niwani ishina? = What is your name?
7, Ishina lyobe ni wani? = Your name, what is it?
8, Ishina Lyenu nimwe ba nani? = Your name, what is it?
9, Ishina lyenu imwe ni bani? = Your name, who are you?
We hope that clarifies some of the mystery.
hi
pls translate the greetings for me
thank ui
How do I say….I have found the woman of my dream,I will do anything for you my Zambian princess
Hi,
how do you say 'I love you' and 'I want to be with you'?
Thanks.
I love you = Nalikutemwa
I want to be with you = Lyonse ndefwaya tuli pamo
Please translate. "My head hurts"
＝Ninjechepa Umutui. Urekalipa.
Is that correct?lol
Hi Keita,
“My head hurts” = “Umutwe ulekalipa”
If you have a throbbing headache you can say *Umutwe ulepuma.”
If you fell and injured your head and it is sore, you would say “Ninjicena kumutwe,ulekalipa.”
I think that is what you are trying to say.
I hope that helps.
I'm writting to a sponsored child. How do I say "God bless you as you learn and grow" in Bemba?
Hi Adrienne,
God bless you as you learn and grow = Lesa akupaale mu masambililo yobe namu mikulile yobe.
Please translate, "My Friend"
Hi gh,
My friend = Umunandi
"she holds my heart in her hands"
i would ike to have this translayes if possible please
can you please traslate this
'naine damifuluka sana daddy'
“Naine ndamufuluka sana, Daddy” = “I miss you too (a lot), Daddy”
hello,
i was hoping to translate, "her love lifts my soul"
"her love nourishes me" and "her love guides me to greatness"
thank you very much
Julian
Thanks so much…the word you've suggested "Ulwendo" seems perfect. I appreciate your help. Will let you know of the program's successes as we move forward.
Lynda
Thanks Lynda. We wish you all the best and look forward to hearing from you.
Hi…I'm a Social Worker who has been asked to submit a proposal for a program aimed at assisting young women who have spent their younger years in a Zambian orphanage, but are now aging out (becoming old enough to leave the program). The program will attempt to help the young women as they safely transition to living on their own, w/out the familiar supports of the orphanage.
The name I'm thinking of is "Transitions" but I'm just not quite sure how the word translates.
Can you help??
Thanks,
Lynda
Lynda, in this context, you could use “Ulwendo” which means “A journey.” It expresses the elements of “transitions” for which we can not think of a direct translation.
Hi Kitweonline, how do you say 'come back here!'
Hi Alex,
“Come back here” is “Bwela kuno” (singular)
and “Bweleni kuno” (plural).
Hi, how do you spell white people in bemba? I know what it is, just not how to write it, thanks
Jennifer,
The word for white person (male or female) is Musungu (singular) or Basungu (plural).
“A white person” = Umusungu
“White people” = Abasungu
What does this word mean in Bemba? bapongoshi
Thank you!
“Bapongoshi” = Father-in-law / Mother-in-law / Daughter-in-law /Son-in-law.
The meaning depends on the context.
Is there an equivalent expression to "once upon a time" that you would say at the beginning of a story?
Hi Robert,
“Once upon a time” = “Patile akantu” (Pronounced as PATILYA KANTU)
Balikwata amano nokutontonkanya, eico bafwile ukulacita ifintu ku banabo mu mutima wa bwananyina.
Can you help translate the foregoing sentence, with particular explanation of the words balikwata, ukulacita, eico and bwananyina?
Hi i7ing,
“Balikwata amano” = “The are intelligent”
“Nokutontonkanya” = “and (they can) reason”
“eico” = “Therefore”
“bafwile” = “They should”
“bafwile ukulacita ifintu ku banabo” = “They should act towards others”
“mu mutima wa bwananyina” = “in a spirit of brotherhood”
Balikwata = they have
Ukulacita = to be doing
Eico = therefore
Bwananyina = brotherhood
Thank you so much. Lesa akupale!
Ba i7ng,
Natotela (Thank you).
Hi can you please translate this from English to Bemba:
I love you the way you are. I have no idea how my life would be without you but I know that It wouldn't be as good as it is at the moment. I can promise you that my feeling not going to change towards you and that I will give up everything just to be with you. I love you and I will love you forever.
Thanks.
Hi Emils,
Romantic Bemba is very poetic, deep and very different from the day to day language. There are also many ways of saying things. Here’s our attempt at a less poetic version:
I love you the way you are = Nalikutemwa nemibele yobe yonse
I have no idea how my life would be without you = Ukwabula iwe katwishi nobumi ningakwata
but I know that It wouldn’t be as good as it is at the moment = lelo teti bucile apa
I can promise you that my feeling not going to change towards you = Ala ine nshakatale nkutaluka
and that I will give up everything just to be with you = pali iwe nafyonse kuti nalofya
I love you and I will love you forever = Nalikutemwa. Icitemwikwa candi tacakatale acipwa
Thanks! That helps a lot!!
And how can I say that if I have a headache from overworking?
Keita,
“I have a headache from overworking” = “Umutwe wakalipa kumulandu wakubombesha.”
Please translate for me:
The false is nothing but an imitation of the true.
Had it been I, I would have helped the old granny.
Please explain:
In the senctence "Apo nkaya ku Bulaya, makucita shani?", what does maku mean?
In "Apo naisa, kakiye ku mushi.", kakiye should be kabiye, right?
Hi Arthur,
“The false is nothing but an imitation of the true” = “Ubufi bumoneka kwati cishinka”
“Had it been I, I would have helped the old granny.” = Aciba nine, nganalyafwiliishe ba mama.”
Thank you very much.
How can I say "Welcome back" in Bemba??
I think "welcome" is Mwaiseni and "back" is Inuma in Bemba, is it right?
Keita,
“Welcome back” is “Mwabweleni” (Singular and plural).
“Bwela” is “Come back” (singular)
“Bweleni” is “Come back” (plural)
“Mwa…” is “You have…” (plural)
“Wa…” is “You have…” (singular)
“Mwabweleni” has no singular form
Another example using “Mwa…”
“Welcome” = Mwaiseni (Plural and Singular)
“Isa” = “Come” (singular)
“Iseni” = “Come” (Plural)
Hi,
Is there a hospitality/customary phrase which means: "enjoy your meal/food"
Thank You
Debbie,
Enjoy your meal is “Lilenipo mukwai”
Inviting someone to come to the dining table is “Nimwe ndeita mukwai.” (“You are invited, sir/madam”).
Ba Editor:
Njikila mu/ku Kasama. Mu or Ku? Any difference?
Twinga cicita or Tunga cicita? Any mistake? I mean we can do it!
I translate English divorcee with my poor Bemba knowledge as umuntu ulekene mucuupo. Is it correct? If not, please help.
Nangeniko or Ndangeniko? Why?
hello… how do i tell in bemba.. " i'm sorry. please forgive me."
Sandeep,
“I’m sorry. please forgive me.” = “Nalilufyanya, njeleleniko” (Past tense, e.g. Yesterday)
or “Nindufyanya, munjeleleko” (Immediate apology).
“Forgive me” = “Njeleleniko”
Hello so my friend recently wrote to me and she wrote,
Ndemifuluka sana sana..Ndekutotela pakumpwishisho mweo!
could you please translate this for me I'd truly appreciate it. 🙂
-Jesse
Hi Jesse,
“Ndemifuluka” = “I miss you”
“sana” = “A lot” or “So much”
“Ndekutotela” = “Thank you”
“pakumpwishisho mweo!” = “For making my life complete”
hello,
can you please transkate these words from english to bemba:-
Dear friends
thank you
mountain of the kings
These are the words
thank you 🙂
Hi Voldemort,
“Dear friends” = “Mwe fibusa”
“Thank you” (I thank you) = “Natotela”
“Thank you” (I am thanking you) = “Ndemutotela”
“Thank you” (We thank you) = “Twamutotela”
“Thank you” (We are thanking you) = “Tulemutotela”
“Mountain of the kings” = “Ulupili lwaba shamfumu”
Please, my friends. I don't qutie understand this sentence:
Ishiwi lya mu ciGriki ilya kuti ukusansa,lyalepilibula ukuba no bunkalwe ubwabipisha nga nshi. (Imil. 8:3)
Umuntu uwaelelwa alatemwa uwamwelela.
What does this sentence mean?
Hi Jack,
“Umuntu uwaelelwa alatemwa uwamwelela.” = “The person who is forgiven loves the one who forgives him/her.”
Natotela sana.
Ba editor:
Please give me a hand on my way to God by translating this:
"Ubufumu bwa kumulu" bwaisa pabwelu na
maka yakwa Yesu ukuba ndubulwila wesu mumulu elyo no kube mfumu
fya fikilishiwa.
What are the meaning of " Tapapitile nanshita" and "Ilyo papitile imyaka itatu" , please?
Hi Lucy,
“Tapapitile nenshita” = In no time (Quickly)
“Ilyo papitile imyaka itatu” = After three years
Hi my translating friend 🙂 how would i say
"Dear future girlfriend I miss you"
Thanks in advance.
Jesse,
“Dear future girlfriend I miss you” = We uli nokuba cibusa candi, ala ndekufuluka.
Hi there please help me translate:”wecisankonde candi icakulila kumo ne imishila” into English
Hi Esther,
“Cisankonde” is Bemba for sugarcane. Normally, you only eat the stem of the cane and throw away the root.
“We cisankonde candi” = “You, my sugarcane”
“Icakuliila kumo ne mishila” = “are edible, together with the roots” (“Lock, stock and barrel”).
It’s a romantic turn of phrase meaning “I love everything about you.”
wow thank you for the translation that is a very sweet phrase.
Was that pun intentional?
what is speeak bemba language I miss you
Hi Vikram,
“I miss you” is “Ndekufuluka” (singular) or “Ndemufuluka” (plural)
mwemakufi yandi mwinenuka -what is the meaning of this?thanks
Hi Estelle,
“Mwemakufi yandi mwinenuka” = (The speaker is addressing his/her knees saying) “You are my knees (my strength), do not buckle under (this) pressure.”
It a figurative way of acknowledging that the going is is tough, but asking to hang in there.
translate for me in Bemba.
Seems like only yesterday wen on Thursday afternoon 22 Dec 2011, at exactly 14.05 my sunshine was brought into this world. indeed how can I repay u, what gift can I give , to thank you Jehovah? Baby K, Others think you are just one year old, but you are 12 months old. That makes you sound a lot older. And Just 15 more years and you’ll be driving a car. So mum n dad r wishing you a happy 1/16th of being old enough to drive.
what do you call a tiger in bemba.
Hi Mable,
Tiger = Mumbulu
Leopard = Mbwili
Hi i like your accurate translations. Pls help me too.
How do you translate the following from english to bemba
1. “ancient of days”
2. “you who fights for me” or “my defender”
3. “I worship you”, “I give you my all”
hie
please translate thank you for your concern but l will be fine
“Thank you for your concern, but I will be fine.” = “Natotela, lelo mwisakamana. Nkaba fye bwino.”
Is there any plural form of ilyeshi(flood) and akeyala(address) in Bemba?
Hi Peter,
Most would accept “ilyeshi” as the plural form of ilyeshi (Flood).
“Ilyeshi lyaisa” can mean “The floods have come” and can also mean “The flood has come.”
The plural for “Akeyala” is “Ba keyala” or even “Ama keyala.”
Please can you tell me how to translate:
“Dear Mike and D,
This is an invitation from all of us at WWT Consulting as our little wedding present. Hopefully it will help you to prolong your forthcoming African experience once that you come back!
Lots of love”
A friend is getting married and going to Zambia for honey moon and would love to know how to write the above in bemba.
Thanks a million!!
Hi Bea,
You can say:
Ba Mike naba D,
Ubu bwite bwafuma kuli ifwe bonse kuno ku WWT Consulting. Ubu bwine bwite e bupe bwesu pa kusefya kwa cupo cenu.
Tulecetekela ukuti (ubwite) buka afwilisha ukumwibukishako amaliila yaku Afrika cilya mwabwela kuno!
Nifwee benu.
what does machomwa bwanji mean and which language is it?
Hi Moira,
“Mwachoma bwanji” is Nyanja for “How is your day?”
Thank you very much.
One more question.As a learner of Bemba for two years, I still can’t figure out the meaning and sentence structure of:
We cipendo nobe ulacepa ca misepela tuteyanya mu masambililo yakumine mu fyakukabila fyamikalile yaiko.
Hi.
Could i please Get sone help to translate this? I have a hard time gettin through to my bf and hope maybe he will hear me if i speak to him in bemba.
Thank you!
“I would never hurt you my love. You are the most important person in my life, and i love you.
I’m so sorry if i have ever dine anything wrong to ever make you question my love for you.
I sant to spend my life with you. I love you.”
Hi Benedicte,
“I would never hurt you my love” = “Teti mfwaye ukukalifya iwe citemwikwa candi.”
“You are the most important person in my life” = “Walicindama ukucila bonse mu mweo wandi”
“I love you” = “Nalikutemwa”
“I’m so sorry” = “Unjelele”
“If I’ve ever done anything wrong to ever make you question my love for you” = “Nganali kulufyanyapo, nokulenga ukuti utwishike ukutemwa kwandi”
“I want to spend my life with you”= “Ndefwaya ukuba nobe inshiku shandi shonse”
Wishing you all the best.
Hi. Could you tell me Bemba word for “transport”
Thank you
Hi Matt,
Transport (noun) – means of transporting = Imyendele
Transport (verb) from one place to another = Sesha
Transport (verb) – enrapture = Sansamusha
I work in a real estate office and could you please translate “Sold By” in Bemba?
Hi Jana,
Sold by = Kashitisha ni …
How do you say “I love you, always and forever”
Hi Kevin,
“I love you” = “Nalikutemwa” (singular), “Nalimutemwa” (Plural)
“Always” = “Lyonse”
“Forever” = “Muyayaya”
“I love you, always and forever” = “Nalikutemwa, lyonse no muyayaya”
hi, I might spell this wrong but what does ‘kusamwa kwa bwena’ mean?
Dear JS,
Some years back I lived for in Lusaka for 12 months. I had many friends who spoke many different Zambian languages and I have come to wonder about the use of the verb ‘love’. It seems that many of my friends said things like “they love us”, where I would have used the less strong verb “like”. Someone once mentioned to me that this is because there are not so many different verbs for ‘love’, ‘like’, ‘admire’, etc in Bemba or Nyanja, so people tend to translate this positive feeling into the English “love”. Is this true?
Looking forward to hearing from you!
Birgitte
Hi Birgitte,
It is true that there are very few verbs for the word “love” in most Zambian languages.
In Bemba, if you want to indicate that two people are lovers, you would say the equivalent of “they sleep together” (lala) or “they walk together.” (enda).
You would have to rely on the context to determine the implied depth of love since the same word is used for “like” and “love.”
Dear JS,
Thanks for the very prompt response! It encourages me to ask a bit more :)I hope you don’t mind?
What would be the Bemba word, then, for love/like? Not necessarily in a lovers relationship, but for example when an employee says that her (female) boss loves her (i.e. likes her).
Would you happen to know the similar verb in Nyanja and whether the same thing applies in Nyanja, that there are very few Nyanja terms for love/like/admire/adore/being fond of/sympathize with etc.
Birgitte,
You are most welcome.
“Temwa” is the Bemba verb meaning “Like” and “love”.
“Konda” is the Nyanja equivalent.
In both languages, the limitation in verbs means the depth of the affection or love is communicated by the context.
My son’s aunties live in Zambia and I would like to know how to say…
“Kutanga misses his aunties”
“One visit felt like five minutes since he has only met his aunties once”
“Thank you”
“My son will grow knowing his roots”
In chibemba! Sorry for not including that!
Thank you!
Hi Diane,
“Sorry for not including that!” = “Munjeleleko pakulabo kubikamo cilya cintu”
“Thank you.” = “Natotela”
Diane,
“Kutanga misses his aunties” = “Kutanga alefuluka banasenge” (paternal aunties)
or “Kutanga alefuluka banyina mwaice.”(maternal aunties)
Hi please translate this to bemba for me
My love you are like the roses so beautiful, your love is like the rose scent so wonderful to me.
So take me into your heart like I have taken you and let me dwell there through the ages of time till death shall we part. May our love like the thorns of the rose chase away those who may want to destroy it. May the precious Lord keep us together till we meet him.
Hello!
I am trying to commence some community geology work and I wanted to get hold of some words to start my Bemba education. I realise some of the technical terms may not exist but hopefully there only a couple.
If you have the time, I would really appreciate it. I think Hardness is Ukukosa?
Mineralisation
Hardness
Accessory minerals
Deposit
Stream sediment sampling
Metamorphic grade
Cut-off grade (or minimum grade)
Keep drilling!
I need a bigger hammer.
Have you seen any green rocks?
May I please use your head as a scale?
I’m going to the conference.
Which way to the bar?
Hi Tim.
This is a tough request.
Mineralisation = ?
Hardness = ?
Accessory minerals = ?
Deposit = ?
Stream sediment sampling = ?
Metamorphic grade = ?
Cut-off grade (or minimum grade) = ?
Keep drilling! = Twalilileni ukubomba (Keep working)
I need a bigger hammer = Ndefwaya sando mukalamba ukucilo yu
Have you seen any green rocks? = Namumonapo amabwe aya katapa katapa?
May I please use your head as a scale? = Ndefwaya mpimine pamutwe wenu
I’m going to the conference = Naya ku cilonganino
Which way to the bar? = Nikwisa ninga ya nwapo? (Where can I get a drink?)
How are you?
A twin is born.
A queen is born.
What are your hobbies?
What is your vision?
You are a godly, beautiful woman and I want to pursue a relationship with you.
I have a great time when I am with you.
Good night.
God bless you.
Thank you
How are you? = Uli shani?
A twin is born = Mpundu afyalwa
A queen is born = Namfumu afyalwa
What are your hobbies? = Fyangalo nshi watemwa?
What is your vision? = Finshi ukabila muno calo?
You are a godly, beautiful woman = Umwanakashi uwacindika Lesa, elyo kabili uwawama.
and I want to pursue a relationship with you = Ndefwaya ube cibusa candi
I have a great time when I am with you = Umutima wandi ulasansamuka ngatuli pamo
Good night = Sendama umutende
God bless you = Lesa akupale
Umumana walikula.
What is the meaning of this sentence?
It means “The river has grown bigger” or “the river is big.”
I am cooking, you are cooking, s/he is cooking; I am sleeping, you are sleeping, s/he is sleeping; I am dancing, you are dancing, s/he is dancing; I am eating, you are eating, s/he is eating; I am walking, you are walking, s/he is walking; I am reaing, you are reading, s/he is reading.
Natotela!
p.s. if you want to translate all the pronoun forms (we, you plural, they) that would be great!
Temwani,
Thanks for your suggestions.
We will prepare some lessons along these lines.
what does the following mean?
Chipaye no lamwina
Hi Noah,
“Chipaye no lamwina” means “Kill it, no intervention.”
Hi thanks for the translation. How do you translate in Bemba Friends without limits or boundaries. Thanks
Noah,
“Bemba Friends without limits or boundaries” = Cibusa wacine (True friend)
“Ishina niwebo nani?” What is your name?
I just can’t figure out the meaning of “niwebo” in the foregoing sentence. Is niwebo a word or a phrase?
Hi Tom,
“We” (pronounced “Way”) is a shortcut for “Iwe” and means “You”
“Webo” also means “You”
“Ni” (pronounced “Knee”) means “Is”
Literary translated, “Ishina niwebo nani?” means “Name, is you who?”
In this context, “Niwebo” is “You are”
The shortcut is “Niwe”
“Niwebo Chairman” = “You are the Chairman.” = “Niwe Chairman.”
Dear Editor, I want to learn some useful bemba.
How to say:
Who is there? Who told you? and Who brought it?
Thanx.
Hi Charlie,
How you say these statements depends on whether you want to use the plural (the plural is also used as a sign of respect, and is used here) or the singular.
“Who is there?” = “Nimwe bani?” (if you are asking who is at the door)
“Who is there? (e.g. Who is at the party?) = Nibani baliko?
“Who is there (in the house)?” = “Nibani balimo?”
“Who is there?” (at the road junction) = Nibani balipo?”
“Who told you?” = “Nibani bamwebele?”
“Who brought it?” = “Nibani baletele?”
The plural form can apply to the person you are asking as well as the person you are asking about. If you are asking a child “Who told you?” you could say “Nibani bakwebele?
MWALOSHENI = CONDOLENCES IN BEMBA. I WANT TO SEND A MESSAGE “CONDOLENCES BROTHER” TO A COLLEAGUE WHOSE MENTO RECENTLY PASSED AWAY. NEED THE BEMBA WORD FOR BROTHER PLEASE. NATOTELA.
Chick,
“Condolences” = “Mwacuuleni”
Ukucuula = Suffering
It is a form of greeting for a bereaved person.
(The two U’s can be replaced with a single “U” that has a circumlex over it}.
Chick,
“Brother” = Munyinane (It is also used for “Sister” or “Cousin”)
Hey,
how is a ‘volunteer’ translated into Bemba?
Thanks, you are doing an amazing job!
Hi Johannes,
Thanks for your comment.
For “Volunteer” you can use “Kaafwa” which really means “Helper”, but is the closest term I know.
Could you please tell me what Vicky is in Bemba please. Thank you
Hi Vicky,
“Vicky” or “Victoria” (meaning “Victory” in Latin) is not directly translatable into Bemba. There are probably local names that are equivalent.
Are there any readers able to help us with that one?
How do you say “congratulations” or “blessings”
Hi Brian,
Congratulations = Mwabombeni
Blessings (God bless) = Lesa apale
What does this mean: (…………….) …thanks!
Hi Peter.
We have sent you a private message. Please check your Junk Mail folder if you have not received it.
Do you think it is appropriate to ask someone “Ati nomba?” when I want to know what the person said??
Keita,
“Ati nomba?” is difficult to interpret accurately without knowing the context.
To ask “What did you say?” = “Amuti shani?” (plural) or “Auti shani?” (singular).
Even if you left out the “Shani”, the question would still be understood.
I see.
So, when(what kind of situation) do you say “Ati Nomba”??
Keita,
“Ati” = “Is it not so?”
“Nomba” = “Now”
“Ati nomba?” = “Is it not so now?”
I suppose you could say you can use the words if you were asking the question. I hope that helps.
Thank you sir. It was very helpful for me.
I personally created a free online translation website named “AtiNomba”.
Basically this is for Japanese people who want to learn African tribal languages.
atinomba.com
Why don’t you try to type “happy birthday” in this search-engine?
Im still in a process to register vocabularies in Chibemba.
Please help me for that.
Thank you
Please translate for me The Word Favour into Bemba possibly as one word
Hi Kangwa,
Favour = Afwa / Temwapo
e.g “He favours his last born” = Atemwapo kasuli wakwe.
Favour (noun) = Bwafwilisho
e.g. “Do me a favour, …” = Njafwilisheniko …
Hello how would i say ” have you got your new phone yet”
Hi Mark,
If someone has sent the phone in the post you could say “Bushe mwalipokelela “phone””?
If you are asking if they have bought the phone: “Bushe mwalishita “phone” iipya”?
After living in Zambia for 30 years, I am embarrased to admit I have forgotten how to say
“thank you very much, my friend”
Can you help please?
Thanks
Hi Mashina,
(Mashina is Bemba for “(my) Namesake”
“Thank you very much, my friend = Natotela sana, mune.”
Mune is shortcut for “we munandi” (My friend / mate)
pliz translate the following sentence into bemba and underline personal pronouns.
she is looking at him.
Lubs,
“She is looking at him.” = “Alemulolesha”
Think of it as “”A le mu lolesha”
Verb:
“Look” = “Lolesha”
“To look” = “Ukulolesha”
PRONOUN:
In Bemba, there is no proper third person pronoun.
Subject:
“A…” refers to the subject, “She”
It would also be used in talking about a man, “He is …” = “A…”
Tense:
Emphasis on this initial “A” is used to change the tense of the sentence to Past Tense:
“She looked at him.” = Aaliimulolesha”
“She continued looking at him” = “Aaleemulolesha”
Object (singular):
“…mu…” refers to the subject, “him”.
“…ka…” refers to a small or short man (Dimunitive): “Alekalolesha”
“…ci…” refers to a big or tall man: “Alecilolesha”
Object (plural):
“…ba…” is plural for “them”: “Alebalolesha”
“…tu…” is plural for dimunitive men “Aletulolesha”
“…fi…” is plural for big men: “Alefilolesha”
I hope this helps. I will post another lesson on personal pronouns soon.
The first one was Bemba Lesson 14: Personal Pronouns, I, Me, My
How do you say “happy birthday, my friend”?
thank you.
Hi Eric,
“Happy birthday, my friend” = “Sefya ubushiku wafyelwe, mune”
Hi
My brother in-law wants to use Bemba at his wedding and I am afriad I could not do a good translation, please help.
“Good afternoon, family and friends, I’m so glad to see you all here at our wedding and I hope you are having a good time.”
Hi Emma,
For “Good afternoon, family and friends, I’m so glad to see you all here at our wedding and I hope you are having a good time,” you could say: “Cungulopo mukwai, ba lupwa ne fibusa fyonse. Ndinensansa nganshi ukumumona pano pa bwinga bwesu. Ndesubila bonse mwalaipakisha.”
please translate CUSTOMER CARE in to bemba
hello JS
I have enjoyed reading your translations. I am looking for your help. I am in the USA and need a name for my farm. I was born in Chingola and have sadly forgotten most of the Bemba that I knew.
Here are some words I would like to know, but I would be very grateful for any other suggestions:
Farm
Horse Farm
Peace
Harmony
Sunshine
Retreat
Roots
home
homestead
The problem I have is the Westerners have difficulty saying words that begn with m, n or b followed by a consenant eg mwana would be said mawana here or Ndola would be said Nadola.
I love the word Katanga which is the family name of a friend of mine and would love to know it’s meaning.
Also Kasaba Bay is a place we went as children, what does Kasaba mean?
Many thanks.
Wendy
Are the following correct translation? If not, why? What do you usually say instead?
1 Where are you from?
Bushe uli wakwi?
2 I am from California.
Ndi waku California.
Dear JS,
Once again I turn to you for help with two questions: one is about translation, and the other is more about common ways of expressing things in Bemba (and Nyanja, if you happen to know).
The translation first: People sometimes referred in English to “the owner” of various projects and activities, meaning the funders or the founders. I wonder whether in Bemba (and Nyanja?) the word for “owner” is the same as “father” – as it is in some other African languages?
Next, I am working with some expressions by people who explain how they came to be volunteers at a district clinic. They say in English: “I had that mind of being close with sick people” or “I have a heart for the community”. I don’t need a translation of these sentences, but I wonder whether ‘mind’ and ‘heart’ in such expressions of inclination might be the same term in Bemba (and Nyanja)?
Looking forward to your always so helpful response
Birgitte
Birgitte,
Owner (Mwine) and Father Mufyashi) are different words in Bemba. The overlap in meaning may occur when you talk about the Originator (Ntulo)or founder and Father (as in founding fathers). These are some of the words that can be used.
You are right, Mind (Mano) and Heart (Mutima) are used to mean the same thing in Bemba as well as in Nyanja (In Nyanja, Mind = Nzelu, and Heart= M’tima)
Hi,
How do you say Darling in Bemba?
Hi Marlon,
Darling (Beloved) = Mutemwikwa
I would like to know how to sing this chorus in Bemba? Could you please translate it from English to Bemba? Thank you!
Then sings my soul
My Savior, God, to Thee
How great thou art
How great thou art
Then sings my soul
My Savior, God, to Thee
How great Thou art
How great Thou art
Hi Holly. I know this is an old post, but here are the full lyrics to that song, as taken from a Bemba Hymnal.
How Great Thou Art
Mwe Lesa wandi, nga nalolekesha
Ifinitu fyonse ‘fyo mwabumbile
Namone ntanda, ne nkuba naumfwa –
Maka yenu yalangwa konse fye.
(chorus)
Kamwimbile, Lesa Mupusushi,
Mwe bakulu, mwe bakulu!
Kamwimbile, Lesa Mupusushi,
Mwe bakulu, mwe bakulu!
Nga natandala mu mutengo ‘kulu,
Naumfwo tuni tulelilamo;
Nanino lupili ulwalepesha,
No kuloleshe mpanga isuma.
Ilyo naibukisha ifyo Lesa,
Atumine Mwan a tufwilile;
Atusendele membu shesu shonse
Awe ici campapusha cine.
Ilyo Kristu akesa mu makumbi,
No kuntwala ku mwakewe ku mulu;
Buseko mwe! Nkalatasha Kabumba,
Nati, Mwe Lesa, muli bakulu!
Hi, could you please translate:
In my eyes you are the most beautiful African women. My eyes have never seen such a natural beauty. I love you and I will always make sure that everything is wright with you. Till the day I die I will support and protect you. God bless you my love.
Thanks 🙂
Dear Editor,
What would Bemba speaking people say in daily conversation if they want to refer to a “project” like an NGO project, a “study” as in a research project, and scientific “research”? Would they tend to mix in the English terms, or are there common Bemba expressions? Do they have particular connotations that would be good to know about?
If you happen to know of the terms in Nyanja too, I would be very happy to learn those as well.
As always: thank you very much in advance!
Birgitte
Hi,
This is such a fantastic resource, thanks! I don’t know if this is still running. But if it is, could you translate the following to Bemba, please: “Dear Annie, Happy Holidays! Have a wonderful Break. Can’t wait to see you next year! Lots of love, Sharon”
Hi please could you translate this to English for me
Nakuchelela Maria waisulo busuma, mulungu nobe, wachishya banakashi bonse busuma, na isa, mwana we fumo lyobe, alipelwe baraka. Maria mutakatifu, nyina kwa mulungu, utulombere ifwe, fwe ba masambi, nomba no mwaka wa kufwa kwesu. Chibe ifyo fine.
This is for my school project. Thank you very much for your help.
Hi Matthew,
I’m not completely sure, but here is my take:
Nakuchelela Maria waisulo busuma = Greetings, Mary, who is full to the brim with goodness
Mulungu nobe = God be with you
Wachishya banakashi bonse busuma = The most beautiful of all women
na isa = He has come
Mmwana we fumo lyobe = The child of your womb
alipelwe baraka = Was given ??
Maria mutakatifu = Holy Mary
Nyina kwa mulungu = The Mother of God
Utulombele ifwe = Intercede on our behalf
Fwe ba masambi = We are sinners
Nomba no mwaka wa kufwa kwesu = Now and until we die
Chibe ifyo fine = Amen
What means
– shooting star?
– I miss you?
– child of god?
Thanks a lot for your help
I am working on a prayer book for medical missionaries serving in Zambia. Could someone help me translate the Lord’s Prayer to Bemba.
Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins
as we forgive those who sin against us.
Save us from the time of trial
and deliver us from evil.
For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours
now and for ever. Amen.
Our Father in heaven, Tata wesu wa mu mulu
hallowed be your name, ishina lyenu lichindikwe
your kingdom come, ubufumu bwenu bwise
your will be done, ukufwaya kwenu ku chitikwe
on earth as in heaven. panonse nga mu mulu
Give us today our daily bread. tupeni ichakulya cheswi chalelo
Forgive us our sins mutwelele imembu shesu
as we forgive those who sin against us. ngefyo naifwe twaelele abatulile misha
Save us from the time of trial mwitutwala mukweshiwa
and deliver us from evil. lelo mutu tule kufyabipa
For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours pantu ubufumu bwenu namaka nobuchindami
now and for ever. Amen. muyaya amen
Word for “He is…”. Is it a name for a person?
In Bemba, “He is …” and “She is…” are the same: “Ali …”
The plural is “Bali …”
Examples:
“He is hungry.” = “Ali ne nsala.”
“They are hungry.” = “Bali ne nsala”
“She is happy.” = “Ali ne nsansa.”
“They are happy.” = “Bali ne nsansa.”
“He is near.” = “Ali mupepi.”
“They are near.” = “Bali mupepi.”
Hello, I have this sentence on a (chiefs) walking stick, but I don’t know which is the right order of saying. Can someone help please?
Side 1: temba nshiku
Side 2: nasho shiku tembe
And what is the translation in English?
Thanks in advance
Hi Laren,
I the correct order would be “Temba nshiku nasho shiku tembe.”
The advice is to live each day to the best of your ability and the days, in return, will serve you well.
(“Temba” is short for “Tentemba” = Treat with tender loving care)
Thank you very much JS. All the best.
Hello!
I am looking for terms to describe a pride of lions, in any Zambian language (or several, if different). Could you please help me?
Best regards,
Tina.
what is the meaning of the word begotten in bemba
My father worked in Zambia for many years and was given a nickname by the men he worked with – something like ‘Kynama’ which, we always thought meant something like ‘raw meat’. Can you clarify please?
Hi Mac,
Inama means meat in Bemba. If the nickname was in another Zambian language, it could have meant something else. In which part of Zambia was he?
Could you translate ‘grace’, ‘faith’, and ‘love’ for me that would be great!! Thanks!
Hi Shelbyrae,
Grace = Kusenamina / Kusenaminwa
Faith = Kutetekela
Love = Kutemwa
good morning, please could you help me to translate:
“African Lake District Tourism Research” into Bemba, thanks you.
Hi, could you please help translate the following sentence, thanks in advance:
Akamwana ako nimbama. Mwimbona amamba pamenso nine nafyala imbeka
Hi Mel. “Imbama” in Bemba is someone or something good or beautiful.
“Akamwana ako nimbama.” = That baby/girl is pretty.
“Mwimbona mamba panuma, nine nafyala imbeka.” = (A Bemba saying used by parents bragging about their offspring) Don’t be fooled by the scales on my back (i.e. I may look ugly but …), I am the one who gave birth to that beauty.
Natotela sana JS!
Hi there,
Thank you for this wonderful online service! I recently travelled to Zambia from Australia and I was so inspired by the church music. I would love to write some music for my choirs so that they can sing in Bemba. Could you please provide some translations for the following parts of the mass:
Lord have mercy, Christ have mercy
Glory to God in the highest, and peace to His people on Earth
Alleluia
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and Earth are full of your glory, Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, Hosanna in the Highest!
Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again
Amen
Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world
Have Mercy on us
Grant us peace
Hi, could you translate ‘Zambian Diary’ into Bemba please?
Many thanks in advance, Mike
Hi Mike, “Zambian Diary” could be translated as “Ificitika mu Zambia.” (What goes on in Zambia) if it is an ongoing diary, or “Ifyacitike mu Zambia” (What happened in Zambia), if it is a historical document.
Hi JS, that’s great, many thanks for the quick response.
Regards,
Mike
Tiger in bemba.
English to bemba.
I wanted to find out the bemba word for grass..and if it has a plural
Hi Natasha. The Bemba word for “Grass” is “Icani. ” That is both singular and plural. The commonly used “ifyani” is used as the plural in “town” Bemba.
Thank you very much for this site. In our church we sing a long of Bemba songs but most of us do not understand them.
may you please help me with the meaning of the folowing phrase:
Mwamulopwe kubala wayicebela wanakililila mulopwe
limo
Elders who are reading this article can draw some useful conclusions from the account we have just considered: (1) The most practical step that we can take to prepare for the coming attack of “the Assyrian” is that of strengthening our faith in God and helping our brothers to do the same. (2) When “the Assyrian” attacks, the elders must be absolutely convinced that Jehovah will deliver us. (3) At that time, the life-saving direction that we receive from Jehovah’s organization may not appear practical from a human standpoint. All of us must be ready to obey any instructions we may receive, whether these appear sound from a strategic or human standpoint or not. (4) Now is the time for any who may be putting their trust in secular education, material things, or human institutions to adjust their thinking. The elders must stand ready to help any who may now be wavering in their faith.
18. How might reflecting on this account benefit us in the future?
Hi Miriam,
I’m sorry that we are not able to translate long passages. You could, however, get in touch with Joseph Mwila Bwembya of Zambian Translators International: http://zambiantranslatorsinternational.weebly.com/
whow do i translate mental, grief and emotion
Please help me with these two words; Excellence and Collaboration
i want u to help me with this word in bemba (distinguish).
Hi Innocent,
Distinguish = “Pusanya” or “Lekanya.”
A distinguished (unique) person = “Umuntu uwaibela” (The “e” is a long sound).
Hi, first of all congratulations for your work and thank you so much for your help in this site.
How can I say:
– “You are amazing and I’m so happy to met you”.
– “Good Morning. Have a wonderful day!”
– “You look beautiful”
Thank you so much in advance.
What does Sekeleleni yesu nafyalwa mean?
Hi Amanda,
Sekeleleni yesu nafyalwa = Rejoice Jesus has been born
Naimwe pabaume bonse muchalo shonse nimwebo natemwa nangu chingaba shani
Hi Thurla, “Naimwe pabaume bonse muchalo chonse(note the spelling) nimwebo natemwa nangu chingaba shani. ” means “Of all the men in the world, you are the one I love, come what may.”
what is “God’s promise” in Bemba language?
Hi Ilse. “God’s promise” = “Amalayo ya kwa Lesa. “
i would like to know the meaning of the bemba words “impalume” and “apashili pakuleka”.By the way keep up the great work you are doing, this website has been of great help
Hi Wezi,
Impalume = Mighty(Distinguished) men
Apashili pakuleka = Not to be taken lightly (“Where it’s at”), i.e. something that should be the focus of attention.
Hi Js could you please help me translate these words
kuwaya wayafye
chali na mailo
aba ebabako
Hi Jay,
Kuwayawaya fye = Not making any real progress / Dilly-dallying / Barely surviving
Chali na mailo = Doing what is necessary to prevent being found out or being criticised in future
Aba ebabako = They are the ones who matter or are found in that location
i would like to know the eaning of contract and custom in bemba
What do call a fridge in Bemba language?
How do you say North,East,West and South in Ichibemba
Hi Henry,
We are glad you find our site useful.
North = Kapinda kaku kuso (The direction on the left hand side)
South = Kapinda kaku kulyo (The direction on the right hand side)
East = Kabanga
West = Masamba
Whats the translation of tumfwa in english?
Hi Joshua.
Tomfwa = “He/She does not listen to advice.”
It can also mean “He / She is of loose morals.”
The context will help to clarify the intended meaning.
Please translate amatobo atishani chimo
Mwachie wandi
Hi Laura,
Mwaice wandi = My (young) brother/sister
hi wanting to know what waishiba ka! in english
thanks
Hi Laura. “Waishiba ka!” = “You know?”
Please translate in English amatobo atishani chimo
Mwachie wandi
Laura
Amatobo = Cheeks
Atishani = Short for “Auti shani?” = What did you say?
Chimo = One thing
They do not seem to make a complete sentence. Would you care to elaborate on the context?
I want to exploit, junction & impact in bemba.
can someone tell me the meaning of the word- nakuyewa naine
Please what does this mean
Nshito yaliba shani?????
Waiting for your response, thanks
Hi Chucks,
“Nshito” is not an accurate Bemba word. Do you mean “Incito”(Work) or inshita (Time)?
“Shani?” is used to say What, Why or How.
“Yaliba” = Past perfect tense of “is”
So your sentence is not quite right but seems to be a question like “How was work?” or “What was the time?”
I hope that helps.
What does namupekanya mean?
Hello, can you translate “gweta” for me. I’ve heard it in a song from Dj lwa77 and I want to know the translation of the song please! Is it Bemba?
Can you translate the chorus of the song “How great is our God” in Bemba for me, please?
How great is our God
Sing with me
How great is our God
And all will see
How great, how great is our God
Thank you
I asked a question where did it go? I asked two days ago.
Good Day ,
I am looking for a English -Bembe translation for the word “OUTREACH”
USED IN A SENTENCE LIKE : The church will do an OUTREACH in Solwezi. Another request is the word REACH OUT
Hi I really adore bemba language I have a song on my playlist by a group called Mag 44 so I was requesting lyrics to their song TAKWABA I would really appreciate Thanks.
Kindly help me with bemba praise names that i can give to my baby
JS Greetings,
What does ninshi pantu? mean
Hi Nicholas, “Ninshi” = “What?”, “Pantu” = “Because, “Ninshi Pantu? ” = “What is the reason? “
how do I say “do don’t pass me by” in bemba?
Hi Esther,
“Do not pass me by” = “Mwincilila.”
please what is the Zambian names for God
What does Ndemikabila
Hi Ashley,
“Ndemikabila” or ” Ndemukabila” = “I want you.”
What does ulimukashaiwandi and nalikutenwa sans mean ?
Hi Tasha.
“Uli mukashi wandi” = “You are my wife.”
“Nalikutemwa sana” = “I love you very much.”
How do you say “my love”?
Pl js can you help me and translate this (Ine Wanpapusha Mwandi Nshikwete Nefyakulanda)
“Ine Wanpapusha Mwandi Nshikwete Nefyakulanda.” = “You really surprise me…I’m speechless.”
Hi, Kindly translate the following for me in Bemba
1. Good morning. How are you?
2. Good afternoon.
3. See you in the morning.
how do we say ukutana in english
Hi Cly. “Ukutana” is to deny someone something.
Akalimi is what in English?
Hi Mulai.
“Akalimi” = A farmer (diminutive).
It could also refer to a (minor) language.
The context would help clarify the exact meaning.
please translate ‘the eye never forgets what the heart has seen’ into bemba
Hi Bek,
One literal translation for “The eye never forgets what the heart has seen.” is “Ilinso talilaba ico umutima umwene.”
Hello I have a girlfriend from Zambia and well I know some words and phrases but how can I say in bemba :”I want to be with you forever. ”
Thanks
Hi Bernhard,
“I want to be with you forever” = “Ndefwaya ukuba nobe mpaka impela.”
Nde fwaya ukuba na ise umuyayaya
ndefwaya ukuba naiwe paka infwa
Please translate “city” in bemba
Hi Lizia,
“City” = “Umusumba”
Hi I would greatly greatly appreciate if you could translate these sentences and words for me please it’s really urgent !!!!
– inshi nalee uwafiko
-Kuwait ku ku papatila sana
-moba yapa monday ni so che
-Pelusa mwana
-chapwa lelo eilko!
-Walushi inchito
-Walichinja
-kale bad!! apa ma full swing chabe!!
-Junta ati shani
– ninshi
-Kapuba or Kapaba
– yama setting iyo
-Kabili
-Ma
Can you help me find a song it goes mutima wanga imu cumtwela koana baby noshe ku Lela mutima mwanga
Meaning of chimbamilonga in English
‘Chimba milonga’ means ‘creator of the seas’
I WANT TO KNOW ukulondela in English
regards
patrick
Hi Patrick,
“Ukulondela” is to guard (something or someone) on behalf of someone else.
Please help me.
What’s the meaning of “Lelo kalendele” ?
Thanks
Hi Ronald,
“Lelo kalendele” is equivalent to “You brought this on yourself, now you face the music.”
Children will usually sing this at their friend to distance themselves from the consequences of their friend’s actions.
You exclaim when you see someone screws up
Lelo kalendele => holy sh**!, Omg!, today you screw up!
How do I say welcome home, welcome back, I miss you, and I love you in Bemba?
How do you say “Where is…”?
I am doing a poster in my office for employees, some of whom originate from Zambia. (I have about 10 languages already translated) This is the phrase I want to translate: “refer a friend and earn an extra $500”. This is for recruiting for our hotel, if they refer someone who is successfully hired, they can earn up to $500 if the person stays with us for 6 months. Thanks for your help!
What is nakapelele’s english name and ichifungalashi in english name
The scientific name for Inswa the Zambian flying termite seems to be Macrotermes falcige so I guess nakapelele are their larva stage. Ichifungalashi- best definition one Zambian friend of mine could give was heartburn. I’m still waiting on other’s feedback
Ichifungalashi = “Pins and needles”
Ichifungalashi is the numbness you feel in limbs when you cut off blood supply
Please translate this word for me: Ndekufulika. . . .based on conversation, I think it means “I miss you.”
Nde kufuluka => I am missing
Nda kufuluka => I miss you
Nka kufuluka => I will miss you
My son is gonna get a little brother or sister, we want to tell the news to grandma by printing a tshirt with big brother on it in bembe but I’m not sure how to correctly say it.
Does anyone here know how to say in bembe: big brother? Or maybe I’m gonna be a big brother.
Tuli pabukulu no mwaume , or natwimita umwaume, or simply natwimita. Is a simplest way of saying we are expecting
I want to know the meaning of chimbamilonga
how do you say, ‘tuck in’ in bemba?
Do you have a Bemba translation for “Peace in this world of sin, the blood of Jesus brings.”
I am requesting for a bemba dictionary
could you translate “Mercy”? thanks!
Mercy = Luse
It’s wonderful
What’s intungulu in English?
Hi KaySie. Intungulu is the Bemba name for “Wild Ginger.” It’s a type of berry. It’s scientific name is Aframomum angustifolium.
Hello sir, highly appreciate the initiative of the platform, it’s really helpful & building up.
I wanted to find the meaning a bemba saying which goes (not sure if the words/spellings are correct but the sequence should help), “chilamuntu nechiwa chakwe”
Hi. Please help me with the meaning of the word “love” in bemba.
Hi all
this looks pretty good and thank you for this sevice but I just tried the email link and it doesnt work.
I’m looking to get ‘Guardian Angel’ translated into Bemba.
Are you able to help?
I would like to know the English name for muzizinga
I just wanted to know what tumeric powder in bemba is
I need to learn more about bemba.
Hello,
I’d like to know the following song lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x1yP_1Vm0B0&t=184s
They are unavailable elsewhere and I would love to know what the message is, if you could help out with the pronunciation too, that would be superb!
Someone in the youtube comments section summarised the lyrics to mean something along the lines of:
i am crying about the past
this land is ours this Africa
that God gave to the black people
i am crying about the past
Kind regards,
Hi Jack,
Thanks for your request. We have posted the lyrics here: https://kitweonline.com/kitweonline/discover-kitwe/entertainment/music/11045.html
I want to translate my english book to bemba
Hi Julius,
Congratulations on writing your book.
Joseph Bwembya will be delighted to work with you on translating your book if you contact him and work out the details. You can contact him on http://www.zamtransinternational.weebly.com/
You are welcome to post a summary of your book on KitweOnline and details about where our readers can get it.
What does ‘chifungala’ and ‘chilakalipa’ mean? Thanks.
Hello John / Dr Sendama,
thank you for this great website.
Could you please tell how you say “you are a great wife and a great mother” in Bemba?
Thanks in advance
Eduardo
Renew or rejuvenate or restore??
Had thought of Isubilo as a company name which we want to bear the meaning of the new hope and restoration we have found in Zambia?? Ideas??
Thank you so much
What is sepe?
It’s scientific name is Mucuna pruriens. It’s known by many common names, including: Monkey Tamarind, Velvet Bean, Bengal Velvet Bean, Florida Velvet Bean, Mauritius Velvet Bean, Yokohama Velvet Bean, Cowage, Cowitch, Lacuna Bean, and Lyon Bean.
Hello, kindly help understand the meaning of Mubela, or Mubeela in Bemba.
Translation from English to Bemba its not working .
Its not working
Hi Thomas,
Thank you for bringing this issue to our attention. We are now working to resolve this problem.
I would like buy a bemba English dictionary, please assist in that regard.
Hi Abel,
You can buy the dictionary in different formats from the following sources:
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/158704
https://www.kobo.com/ww/en/ebook/english-bemba-dictionary
https://www.scribd.com/book/193922635/English-Bemba-Dictionary
https://books.apple.com/gb/book/english-bemba-dictionary/id529357339?mt=11&id=529357339&ign-mpt=uo%3D4
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/english-bemba-dictionary-dr-john-sendama/1111299438
https://www.booktopia.com.au/english-bemba-dictionary-dr-john-sendama/ebook/9781476179599.html
Alternatively, you can send your Mobile Money payment (K100) to KitweOnline on: +260 765969562 with the reference words: “EB Dictionary to ” followed by the email address or WhatsApp number you would like to receive the Dictionary on (in PDF format).
1. Republic of Korea
2. Democratic People’s Republic of Korea
3. South Korea
4. North Korea
Nobody should be talking to you early in the morning. I don’t want their negative energy on you
Please tell me the meaning of Ubushilu
Ubushilu = Madness
Night
The night
I want to learn English
How do you say ukusuna ubwali in English.
Hi, can you please translated “Ichitemwiko chandi chingi” into English for me. Thank you
“Ichitemwiko chandi chingi” = My love is abundant.