Language/Kinyarwanda/Vocabulary/Health
Hi Kinyarwanda learners! 😊
In this lesson, we will learn important health-related words and phrases in Kinyarwanda. Health is an essential topic to learn, especially when traveling to a new country. Knowing the basics will help you seek medical attention and describe your symptoms to the doctor. Let's get started!
Don't hesitate to look into these other pages after completing this lesson: Colors & Animals.
Vocabulary[edit | edit source]
Here is a list of health-related words and phrases in Kinyarwanda:
| Kinyarwanda | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| umwuka | ['umwukɑ] | headache |
| akamu | [ɑ'kɑmu] | stomachache |
| umwuka w'ingwe | ['umwukɑ w‿iŋge] | joint pain |
| inzoka | [in'zokɑ] | fever |
| irindi | [iɾin'di] | cold |
| nkahe | ['nkɑhe] | cough |
| umurwayi | ['umurwɑji] | patient |
| umudugudu | ['umudugudu] | hospital |
| umubyeyi w'umwana | ['umubjɛji w‿umwɑnɑ] | pediatrician |
| inywa | [in'jwɑ] | medicine |
Example dialogue:
- Person 1: Ndi muri umwuka. (I have a headache.)
- Person 2: Twese duhindure meshyi. (Let's all drink water.)
- Person 1: Inzoka zirirwaga. (I have a fever.)
- Person 2: Wubaha inywa ya parasetamoli wowe. (You should take paracetamol medicine.)
Useful phrases[edit | edit source]
Here are some phrases you can use when seeking medical attention:
- Ndarota urugo (I need a hospital)
- Ndarota dokotera (I need a doctor)
- Ndahindura inama (I feel dizzy)
- Nitwara ibitotsi (I have a headache)
Cultural Information[edit | edit source]
In Rwanda, there is a proverb "Gira ubwoba burushya," which means "Have a little fear." This proverb emphasizes the importance of precautionary measures and not taking unnecessary risks. In the context of health, it is essential to seek medical attention and not dismiss symptoms. It is better to be safe than sorry.
Rwandan traditional medicine is prevalent among the local population. People seek healing from traditional healers, also known as herbalists or diviners. They use a combination of herbal remedies and spiritual practices to cure a variety of ailments, from physical to psychological. However, it is important to keep in mind that traditional medicine should not replace modern medical treatment.
Conclusion[edit | edit source]
I hope this lesson has helped you expand your Kinyarwanda vocabulary and your knowledge of health-related terms. Remember to take care of your health, seek medical attention when needed, and have a little fear. Don't forget to practice using these words and phrases with native speakers of Kinyarwanda. Keep learning with Polyglot Club's Vocabulary and Kinyarwanda lessons!
➡ If you have any questions, please ask them in the comments section below.
➡ Feel free to edit this wiki page if you think it can be improved. 😎
Finished this lesson? Check out these related lessons: Fruits & Education.
Other Lessons[edit | edit source]
- Clothes
- Education
- How to Say Hello and Greetings
- Fruits
- Drinks
- Feelings and Emotions
- Animals
- Count to 10
- Colors
- Geography