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<div class="pg_page_title">[[Language/Shona|Shona]]  → [[Language/Shona/Grammar|Grammar]] → [[Language/Shona/Grammar/0-to-A1-Course|0 to A1 Course]] → Asking Questions → Question Words</div>
<div class="pg_page_title">[[Language/Shona|Shona]]  → [[Language/Shona/Grammar|Grammar]] → [[Language/Shona/Grammar/0-to-A1-Course|0 to A1 Course]] → Question Words</div>
 
Welcome to another exciting lesson in your journey to learn Shona! Today, we will delve into the fascinating world of '''question words'''—the essential building blocks that will help you ask questions and communicate effectively in Shona. Understanding how to formulate questions is crucial, as it allows you to gather information, engage in conversations, and express curiosity about the world around you. Whether you're asking about the time, someone's name, or where something is, mastering question words will enhance your Shona language skills significantly.
 
In this lesson, we will cover:
 
* An introduction to question words in Shona
 
* A comprehensive list of question words
 
* Examples illustrating the use of each question word
 
* Exercises to practice what you’ve learned
 
So, let’s get started!


__TOC__
__TOC__


== Introduction ==
=== Introduction to Question Words ===
 
Question words, also known as ''interrogatives'', are the words we use to ask questions. In Shona, just like in English, these words help us inquire about specific information. They can relate to people, places, times, reasons, and much more. Learning these words not only improves your vocabulary but also enhances your ability to engage with native speakers.
 
In Shona, the most common question words include:
 
'' '''Who''' - ''ani*
 
'' '''What''' - ''chii*


Welcome to the lesson on Shona question words! In this lesson, we will explore the different question words in the Shona language and learn how to form various types of questions. Asking questions is an essential skill in any language, as it allows us to gather information, clarify doubts, and engage in meaningful conversations. As a language learner, mastering question words will greatly enhance your ability to communicate effectively in Shona.
'' '''Where''' - ''papi*


We will begin by introducing the different question words used in Shona, such as "who," "what," "where," "when," "why," and "how." We will then dive into the details of how to use these question words to form different types of questions, including yes/no questions, information questions, and choice questions. Throughout the lesson, we will provide numerous examples to illustrate each point, ensuring a clear and thorough understanding of the topic.
'' '''When''' - ''rini*


To make the learning experience even more engaging, we will also explore the cultural significance of asking questions in Shona. We will discuss any regional variations in the usage or understanding of question words, as well as any historical reasons for these differences. Additionally, we will share interesting cultural facts and anecdotes related to asking questions in the Shona language, providing you with a deeper appreciation for the language and its people.
'' '''Why''' - ''sei*


To reinforce your understanding of question words, we have prepared a series of exercises and practice scenarios. These exercises will allow you to apply what you have learned and test your knowledge in a practical way. We will provide solutions and explanations for each exercise, ensuring that you receive immediate feedback and can track your progress as you go along.
'' '''How''' - ''sei'' or ''maitiro* (for methods)


So, let's get started and dive into the fascinating world of Shona question words! By the end of this lesson, you will have a solid understanding of how to ask questions in Shona and be able to engage in meaningful conversations with native speakers.
These words can be used in various contexts, and their correct usage is essential for forming coherent and meaningful questions.  


== Question Words ==
=== Common Question Words in Shona ===


In Shona, question words are used to gather specific information or seek clarification. These words are essential for forming questions and engaging in conversations. Let's take a look at the most common question words in Shona:
Let's explore each question word in detail, along with examples to illustrate their application.


=== Who ===
==== Who (ani) ====


The question word "who" is used to inquire about a person or people. It helps us identify the subject of the question. Here are some examples:
The word ''ani'' is used to ask about a person or people.


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Shona !! Pronunciation !! English
! Shona !! Pronunciation !! English
|-
|-
| Ndiye ani? || ndi-yeh a-nee? || Who is he/she?
 
| Ani ari kuuya? || /a.ni a.ri kuː.ja/ || Who is coming?
 
|-
|-
| Vamwe vanhu vachiri kupi? || va-mwe va-nhu va-chi-ri ku-pee? || Where are other people?
 
| Ani akakurudzira? || /a.ni a.ka.ku.ru.zi.ra/ || Who encouraged you?
 
|-
|-
| Vamwe vanhu vachida zvinhu zvakawanda? || va-mwe va-nhu va-chi-da zvi-nhu zva-ka-wan-da? || Who wants many things?
 
| Ani achiri pano? || /a.ni a.tʃi.ri pa.no/ || Who is still here?
 
|-
 
| Ani anoda kutamba? || /a.ni a.no.da ku.tam.ba/ || Who wants to dance?
 
|}
|}


=== What ===
==== What (chii) ====


The question word "what" is used to inquire about things or objects. It helps us identify the object of the question. Here are some examples:
''Chii'' is used to inquire about things, objects, or concepts.


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Shona !! Pronunciation !! English
! Shona !! Pronunciation !! English
|-
|-
| Zvinoreva sei? || zvi-no-re-va sey? || What does it mean?
 
| Chii chiri muko? || /tʃi.i tʃi.ri mu.ko/ || What is in the bag?
 
|-
|-
| Chii chiri kumbofamba? || chi-i chi-ri kum-bo-fam-ba? || What is happening?
 
| Chii chiri kuitika? || /tʃi.i tʃi.ri kwai.ti.ka/ || What is happening?
 
|-
|-
| Zvinhu zvawakaita sei? || zvi-nhu zva-wa-kai-ta sey? || What did you do?
 
| Chii chauri kuda? || /tʃi.i tʃau.ri ku.da/ || What do you want?
 
|-
 
| Chii chichakubatsira? || /tʃi.i tʃi.cha.ku.bat.si.ra/ || What will help you?
 
|}
|}


=== Where ===
==== Where (papi) ====


The question word "where" is used to inquire about a location or place. It helps us identify the location of the question. Here are some examples:
Use ''papi'' to ask about locations or places.


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Shona !! Pronunciation !! English
! Shona !! Pronunciation !! English
|-
|-
| Kune mukati kwechirongwa here? || ku-ne mu-ka-ti kwe-chi-rong-wa he-re? || Is there a park in the middle?
 
| Papi paunogara? || /pa.pi pa.u.no.ga.ra/ || Where do you live?
 
|-
|-
| Zviri kure kuno? || zvi-ri ku-re ku-no? || Is it far from here?
 
| Papi pane mvura? || /pa.pi pa.ne mvu.ra/ || Where is the water?
 
|-
|-
| Kunze kwechikara kune mabhizinesi here? || ku-nze kwe-chi-ka-ra ku-ne ma-bhi-zi-ne-si he-re? || Are there any restaurants near the hotel?
 
| Papi tichasangana? || /pa.pi ti.tʃa.sa.nga.na/ || Where shall we meet?
 
|-
 
| Papi pane ruoko rwako? || /pa.pi pa.ne ru.o.ko ru.ka.o/ || Where is your hand?
 
|}
|}


=== When ===
==== When (rini) ====


The question word "when" is used to inquire about time or an event. It helps us identify the time or duration of the question. Here are some examples:
''Rini'' asks about time-related inquiries.


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Shona !! Pronunciation !! English
! Shona !! Pronunciation !! English
|-
|-
| Rinhi zviri kuitika? || ri-nhi zvi-ri ku-i-ti-ka? || When did it happen?
 
| Rini uchadzoka? || /ri.ni u.cha.dzo.ka/ || When will you return?
 
|-
|-
| Kuri sei? || ku-ri sey? || What time is it?
 
| Rini tichatanga? || /ri.ni ti.tʃa.tan.ga/ || When shall we start?
 
|-
|-
| Rinhi riri kure? || ri-nhi ri-ri ku-re? || How long is it?
 
| Rini uchauya? || /ri.ni u.cha.u.ya/ || When will you come?
 
|-
 
| Rini hondo ichapera? || /ri.ni hon.do i.tʃa.pe.ra/ || When will the war end?
 
|}
|}


=== Why ===
==== Why (sei) ====


The question word "why" is used to inquire about a reason or cause. It helps us understand the motivation behind the question. Here are some examples:
The word ''sei'' is used to inquire about reasons.


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Shona !! Pronunciation !! English
! Shona !! Pronunciation !! English
|-
|-
| Ndiani ari kutora mutoro? || ndi-a-ni a-ri ku-to-ra mu-to-ro? || Why is he taking a break?
 
| Sei uri kusuruvara? || /sei u.ri ku.su.ru.va.ra/ || Why are you confused?
 
|-
|-
| Chii chakambobudirira zvikuru? || chi-i cha-kam-bo-bu-di-ri-ra zvi-ku-ru? || Why did it become so big?
 
| Sei tichifanira kuenda? || /sei ti.tʃi.fa.ni.ra ku.en.da/ || Why do we have to go?
 
|-
|-
| Zviri kure kuno? || zvi-ri ku-re ku-no? || Why is it far from here?
 
| Sei uchitora chipo? || /sei u.ʧi.to.ra tʃi.po/ || Why are you taking a gift?
 
|-
 
| Sei musingabvumi? || /sei mu.si.nga.bvu.mi/ || Why don’t you agree?
 
|}
|}


=== How ===
==== How (sei / maitiro) ====


The question word "how" is used to inquire about the manner or method of something. It helps us understand the process or way in which the question occurs. Here are some examples:
''Sei'' or ''maitiro'' can be used to ask about methods or ways of doing something.


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Shona !! Pronunciation !! English
! Shona !! Pronunciation !! English
|-
|-
| Zviri kumbofamba sei? || zvi-ri kum-bo-fam-ba sey? || How does it work?
 
| Sei unozviita? || /sei u.no.zvi.i.ta/ || How do you do that?
 
|-
|-
| Kukwira mota kune nzira here? || ku-kwi-ra mo-ta ku-ne nzi-ra he-re? || How do you get to the car?
 
| Maitiro aunoita sei? || /ma.i.ti.ro a.u.no.i.ta sei/ || How do you do it?
 
|-
|-
| Kune nzira here yokuti rikure? || ku-ne nzi-ra he-re yo-ku-ti ri-ku-re? || Is there a way to make it closer?
 
| Sei tichitamba? || /sei ti.tʃi.tam.ba/ || How are we dancing?
 
|-
 
| Maitiro ekupika chingwa? || /ma.i.ti.ro e.ku.pi.ka tʃin.gwa/ || How to bake bread?
 
|}
|}


These are the main question words in Shona. By familiarizing yourself with these words, you will be able to ask a wide range of questions and engage in meaningful conversations in Shona. Now, let's move on to exploring how to form different types of questions using these question words.
=== Forming Questions Using Question Words ===


== Forming Questions ==
Now that we have familiarized ourselves with the basic question words, let's see how they can be combined with subject pronouns and verbs to form complete questions.


In Shona, questions can be formed in different ways depending on the type of question being asked. Let's explore the three main types of questions: yes/no questions, information questions, and choice questions.
1. '''Subject + Question Word + Verb + Object'''


=== Yes/No Questions ===
* Example: ''Iwe ani uchauya?'' (You who will come?)


Yes/no questions are questions that can be answered with a simple "yes" or "no." In Shona, yes/no questions are formed by adding the question particle "a" to the end of a statement. Let's look at some examples:
2. '''Question Word + Subject + Verb + Object'''
 
* Example: ''Chii chiri kuitika?'' (What is happening?)
 
3. '''Question Word + Verb + Subject + Object'''
 
* Example: ''Sei uri kuenda?'' (Why are you going?)
 
=== Examples of Complete Questions ===
 
Here are some complete questions that incorporate the question words we have learned:


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Shona !! Pronunciation !! English
! Shona !! Pronunciation !! English
|-
|-
| Anouya? || a-no-u-ya? || Is he coming?
 
| Ani akakupai? || /a.ni a.ka.ku.pai/ || Who gave you?
 
|-
|-
| Vamwe vanhu vachida zvinhu zvakawanda? || va-mwe va-nhu va-chi-da zvi-nhu zva-ka-wan-da? || Do other people want many things?
 
| Chii chiri kutengeswa? || /tʃi.i tʃi.ri ku.te.nges.wa/ || What is being sold?
 
|-
|-
| Vamwe vanhu vachiri kupi? || va-mwe va-nhu va-chi-ri ku-pee? || Where are other people?
|}


Note that yes/no questions in Shona can also be formed by using a rising intonation at the end of a statement, without the need for the question particle "a." However, using the question particle "a" is more common and provides clarity in written form.
| Papi paunoda kuenda? || /pa.pi pa.u.no.da ku.en.da/ || Where do you want to go?


=== Information Questions ===
|-


Information questions are questions that seek specific information and cannot be answered with a simple "yes" or "no." In Shona, information questions are formed by using the appropriate question word at the beginning of a sentence. Let's look at some examples:
| Rini uchasangana naye? || /ri.ni u.cha.sa.nga.na na.ye/ || When will you meet him/her?


{| class="wikitable"
! Shona !! Pronunciation !! English
|-
|-
| Ndiye ani? || ndi-yeh a-nee? || Who is he/she?
 
| Sei uchirwadziwa? || /sei u.ʧi.rwa.dzi.wa/ || Why are you hurting?
 
|-
|-
| Zvinoreva sei? || zvi-no-re-va sey? || What does it mean?
 
|-
| Maitiro ekugadzira chingwa? || /ma.i.ti.ro e.ku.ga.zi.ra tʃin.gwa/ || How to make bread?
| Kune mukati kwechirongwa here? || ku-ne mu-ka-ti kwe-chi-rong-wa he-re? || Is there a park in the middle?
 
|}
|}


When forming information questions, it is important to pay attention to the word order in Shona. In Shona, the question word usually comes before the verb or verb phrase, unlike in English where the question word often comes at the beginning of the sentence. By practicing and familiarizing yourself with the word order in Shona, you will be able to ask information questions with ease.
=== Practice Exercises ===
 
Now that you have learned about question words, it's time to put your knowledge to the test! Below are some exercises designed to help you practice what you've learned.
 
==== Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks ====
 
Complete the following questions by filling in the blanks with the appropriate question words.
 
1. ___ uri kuenda? (Where are you going?)
 
2. ___ ndiwe? (Who are you?)
 
3. ___ tichasangana? (When shall we meet?)
 
4. ___ chiri kuitika? (What is happening?)
 
5. ___ uchida? (What do you want?)
 
''Solutions:''
 
1. Papi uri kuenda?
 
2. Ani ndiwe?
 
3. Rini tichasangana?
 
4. Chii chiri kuitika?
 
5. Chii uchida?
 
==== Exercise 2: Rewrite the Questions ====
 
Rewrite the following sentences into questions using the appropriate question word.
 
1. You are coming. (Who)
 
2. The book is on the table. (What)
 
3. She is happy. (Why)
 
4. They are playing. (How)
 
5. We will eat. (When)
 
''Solutions:''
 
1. Ani ari kuuya?
 
2. Chii chiri patafura?
 
3. Sei achifara?
 
4. Maitiro avari kutamba?
 
5. Rini tichadya?


=== Choice Questions ===
==== Exercise 3: Match the Questions ====


Choice questions are questions that offer a selection of options to choose from. In Shona, choice questions are formed by using the question word "kani" or "kaniro" followed by the options presented. Let's look at some examples:
Match the questions on the left with their answers on the right.


{| class="wikitable"
| Question | Answer |
! Shona !! Pronunciation !! English
 
|-
| --- | --- |
| Chii wakatsvaga? || chi-i wa-kat-sva-ga? || What were you looking for?
 
|-
| 1. Ani akakubatsira? | a. Chii chiri kufamba? |
| Kani unoda? || ka-ni u-no-da? || What do you want?
 
|-
| 2. Chii chiri kutengwa? | b. Rini uchauya? |
| Kaniro wako here? || ka-ni-ro wa-ko he-re? || What is your choice?
 
|}
| 3. Papi pane chingwa? | c. Ndiri kufara. |
 
| 4. Sei uri kupindura? | d. Pano. |
 
| 5. Rini uchauya? | e. Ndiri kubatsira. |
 
''Solutions:''
 
1 - e, 2 - a, 3 - d, 4 - c, 5 - b.
 
==== Exercise 4: Create Your Own Questions ====
 
Using the question words learned, create five questions about your daily life. Share them with a classmate for practice.
 
''Example:''
 
1. Chii chaunoda kuita mangwana? (What do you want to do tomorrow?)
 
==== Exercise 5: Listening Exercise ====
 
Listen to a native speaker ask questions using the question words. Write down the questions you hear and translate them into English.
 
''Solutions to be shared in class.''
 
==== Exercise 6: Group Discussion ====
 
In small groups, use the question words to ask each other about your weekend plans. Make sure to use a variety of question words.
 
''Example Questions:''
 
* Ani achauya newe?
 
* Papi muchaenda?
 
* Rini muchatanga?
 
==== Exercise 7: True or False ====
 
Read the statements below and decide if they are true or false. Correct the false ones.
 
1. ''Chii chiri kutamba?'' (What is playing?)
 
2. ''Ani akabvunza?'' (Who asked?)
 
3. ''Papi pane munda?'' (Where is the garden?)
 
4. ''Sei uri kufara?'' (Why are you sad?)
 
5. ''Rini uchamuka?'' (When will you wake up?)
 
''Solutions:''
 
1. False: Chii chiri kutamba? (What is playing?)
 
2. True
 
3. True
 
4. False: Sei uri kusuruvara? (Why are you sad?)
 
5. True
 
==== Exercise 8: Role Play ====
 
In pairs, create a short role play where one person asks questions using the question words, and the other answers. Switch roles and repeat.
 
==== Exercise 9: Translation Exercise ====
 
Translate the following questions from English to Shona.
 
1. Who is your friend?
 
2. What are you doing?
 
3. Where did you go?
 
4. When will you come back?


By using choice questions, you can explore different options and preferences in conversations. This allows for a more engaging and interactive dialogue with native Shona speakers.
5. Why are you late?


== Cultural Significance of Asking Questions ==
''Solutions:''


Asking questions plays a significant role in Shona culture, as it reflects a genuine interest in others and a desire to understand different perspectives. In Shona society, asking questions is seen as a way of showing respect and building relationships. It demonstrates a willingness to listen and learn from others, which is highly valued in the Shona community.
1. Ani shamwari yako?


In addition to its social significance, asking questions in Shona is also deeply rooted in the historical context of the language. The Shona people have a rich cultural heritage, and their language reflects their deep connection to their land, ancestors, and traditions. By asking questions, language learners can gain a deeper understanding of the Shona culture and its values.
2. Chii chauri kuita?


== Exercises ==
3. Papi wawakaenda?


Now it's time to put your knowledge of Shona question words into practice! Below are some exercises to help you reinforce your understanding and apply what you have learned. Take your time to complete each exercise, and refer back to the lesson material as needed. Solutions and explanations are provided at the end of each exercise.
4. Rini uchadzoka?


Exercise 1: Forming Questions
5. Sei uri kunonoka?
For each statement, form a question using the appropriate question word.


1. She is a doctor.
==== Exercise 10: Quiz ====
2. They went to the park.
3. It happened yesterday.
4. He is coming from school.
5. I want to buy a book.


Exercise 2: Yes/No Questions
A short quiz to assess your understanding of question words. Answer the questions and discuss with your teacher.
Rewrite each statement as a yes/no question.


1. Anouya.
1. What is the Shona word for “where”?
2. Vachida kudya.
3. Vakakwira mota.
4. Vane mabasa.
5. Vakafamba kunze.


Exercise 3: Information Questions
2. How do you ask “who” in Shona?
Ask a question to gather the specified information.


1. Find out who he is.
3. Write a question using “why.”
2. Inquire about what it means.
3. Ask where the restaurant is located.
4. Seek information on when the event will take place.
5. Discover why she is leaving.


Exercise 4: Choice Questions
4. What is the difference between “sei” and “maitiro”?
Ask a choice question based on the given options.


1. The red shirt or the blue shirt?
5. Formulate a question using “what.”
2. The big house or the small house?
3. The black car or the white car?
4. The chicken or the fish?
5. The book or the movie?


== Solutions ==
''Solutions:''


Exercise 1: Forming Questions
1. Papi


1. Ndiye ani?
2. Ani
2. Vakabva kupi?
3. Rinhi rairi kuitika?
4. Anouya kuchikoro here?
5. Ndoda kupa chibuku.


Exercise 2: Yes/No Questions
3. (Student's response)


1. Aa-ano-u-ya?
4. ''Sei'' asks for a reason, while ''maitiro'' asks for a method.
2. Va-achi-da ku-dya?
3. Va-ka-kwi-ra mo-ta?
4. Va-ne ma-ba-sa?
5. Va-ka-fa-mba ku-nze?


Exercise 3: Information Questions
5. (Student's response)


1. Ndiye ani?
=== Conclusion ===
2. Zvi-no-re-va sey?
3. Kune res-tau-ran-ti ku-ne-ko here?
4. Ri-nhi ri-ri ku-i-ti-ka?
5. Ndi-a-ni a-ri ku-ku-ya?


Exercise 4: Choice Questions
Congratulations on completing this lesson on question words in Shona! By mastering these essential words and practicing their use in questions, you have taken a significant step toward becoming proficient in the language. Remember, asking questions is a powerful tool in communication, allowing you to connect with others and learn more about the culture and people around you. Keep practicing, and don’t hesitate to ask questions when in doubt!


1. Ka-ni ro-wa-ko, shi-ya ro-mwe here?
{{#seo:
2. Ka-ni ro-wa-ko, ku-dya ku-rung-wa here?
3. Ka-ni ro-wa-ko, mo-ta ku-ti ri-ku-re here?
4. Ka-ni ro-wa-ko, ku-dya ku-ripi here?
5. Ka-ni ro-wa-ko, bu-ku ku-ripi here?


== Conclusion ==
|title=Shona Grammar: Question Words


Congratulations on completing the lesson on Shona question words! You have learned the different question words in Shona and how to form various types of questions. By mastering question words, you will be able to engage in meaningful conversations and gather information effectively in Shona.
|keywords=Shona, question words, language learning, grammar, Shona language


Remember to practice using question words in real-life situations to further enhance your language skills. The more you engage with the Shona language and its people, the more you will deepen your understanding and appreciation for the culture.
|description=In this lesson, you will learn about question words in Shona, how to form questions, and practice exercises to enhance your learning.


We hope you enjoyed this lesson and found it valuable in your Shona language journey. Keep up the great work, and stay curious!
}}


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==Sources==
==Sources==

Latest revision as of 08:22, 2 August 2024

◀️ Festivals and Celebrations — Previous Lesson Next Lesson — Indirect Questions ▶️

Zimbabwe-flag-polyglotclub-Wiki.jpg
Shona → Grammar → 0 to A1 Course → Question Words

Welcome to another exciting lesson in your journey to learn Shona! Today, we will delve into the fascinating world of question words—the essential building blocks that will help you ask questions and communicate effectively in Shona. Understanding how to formulate questions is crucial, as it allows you to gather information, engage in conversations, and express curiosity about the world around you. Whether you're asking about the time, someone's name, or where something is, mastering question words will enhance your Shona language skills significantly.

In this lesson, we will cover:

  • An introduction to question words in Shona
  • A comprehensive list of question words
  • Examples illustrating the use of each question word
  • Exercises to practice what you’ve learned

So, let’s get started!

Introduction to Question Words[edit | edit source]

Question words, also known as interrogatives, are the words we use to ask questions. In Shona, just like in English, these words help us inquire about specific information. They can relate to people, places, times, reasons, and much more. Learning these words not only improves your vocabulary but also enhances your ability to engage with native speakers.

In Shona, the most common question words include:

Who - ani*

What - chii*

Where - papi*

When - rini*

Why - sei*

How - sei or maitiro* (for methods)

These words can be used in various contexts, and their correct usage is essential for forming coherent and meaningful questions.

Common Question Words in Shona[edit | edit source]

Let's explore each question word in detail, along with examples to illustrate their application.

Who (ani)[edit | edit source]

The word ani is used to ask about a person or people.

Shona Pronunciation English
Ani ari kuuya? /a.ni a.ri kuː.ja/ Who is coming?
Ani akakurudzira? /a.ni a.ka.ku.ru.zi.ra/ Who encouraged you?
Ani achiri pano? /a.ni a.tʃi.ri pa.no/ Who is still here?
Ani anoda kutamba? /a.ni a.no.da ku.tam.ba/ Who wants to dance?

What (chii)[edit | edit source]

Chii is used to inquire about things, objects, or concepts.

Shona Pronunciation English
Chii chiri muko? /tʃi.i tʃi.ri mu.ko/ What is in the bag?
Chii chiri kuitika? /tʃi.i tʃi.ri kwai.ti.ka/ What is happening?
Chii chauri kuda? /tʃi.i tʃau.ri ku.da/ What do you want?
Chii chichakubatsira? /tʃi.i tʃi.cha.ku.bat.si.ra/ What will help you?

Where (papi)[edit | edit source]

Use papi to ask about locations or places.

Shona Pronunciation English
Papi paunogara? /pa.pi pa.u.no.ga.ra/ Where do you live?
Papi pane mvura? /pa.pi pa.ne mvu.ra/ Where is the water?
Papi tichasangana? /pa.pi ti.tʃa.sa.nga.na/ Where shall we meet?
Papi pane ruoko rwako? /pa.pi pa.ne ru.o.ko ru.ka.o/ Where is your hand?

When (rini)[edit | edit source]

Rini asks about time-related inquiries.

Shona Pronunciation English
Rini uchadzoka? /ri.ni u.cha.dzo.ka/ When will you return?
Rini tichatanga? /ri.ni ti.tʃa.tan.ga/ When shall we start?
Rini uchauya? /ri.ni u.cha.u.ya/ When will you come?
Rini hondo ichapera? /ri.ni hon.do i.tʃa.pe.ra/ When will the war end?

Why (sei)[edit | edit source]

The word sei is used to inquire about reasons.

Shona Pronunciation English
Sei uri kusuruvara? /sei u.ri ku.su.ru.va.ra/ Why are you confused?
Sei tichifanira kuenda? /sei ti.tʃi.fa.ni.ra ku.en.da/ Why do we have to go?
Sei uchitora chipo? /sei u.ʧi.to.ra tʃi.po/ Why are you taking a gift?
Sei musingabvumi? /sei mu.si.nga.bvu.mi/ Why don’t you agree?

How (sei / maitiro)[edit | edit source]

Sei or maitiro can be used to ask about methods or ways of doing something.

Shona Pronunciation English
Sei unozviita? /sei u.no.zvi.i.ta/ How do you do that?
Maitiro aunoita sei? /ma.i.ti.ro a.u.no.i.ta sei/ How do you do it?
Sei tichitamba? /sei ti.tʃi.tam.ba/ How are we dancing?
Maitiro ekupika chingwa? /ma.i.ti.ro e.ku.pi.ka tʃin.gwa/ How to bake bread?

Forming Questions Using Question Words[edit | edit source]

Now that we have familiarized ourselves with the basic question words, let's see how they can be combined with subject pronouns and verbs to form complete questions.

1. Subject + Question Word + Verb + Object

  • Example: Iwe ani uchauya? (You who will come?)

2. Question Word + Subject + Verb + Object

  • Example: Chii chiri kuitika? (What is happening?)

3. Question Word + Verb + Subject + Object

  • Example: Sei uri kuenda? (Why are you going?)

Examples of Complete Questions[edit | edit source]

Here are some complete questions that incorporate the question words we have learned:

Shona Pronunciation English
Ani akakupai? /a.ni a.ka.ku.pai/ Who gave you?
Chii chiri kutengeswa? /tʃi.i tʃi.ri ku.te.nges.wa/ What is being sold?
Papi paunoda kuenda? /pa.pi pa.u.no.da ku.en.da/ Where do you want to go?
Rini uchasangana naye? /ri.ni u.cha.sa.nga.na na.ye/ When will you meet him/her?
Sei uchirwadziwa? /sei u.ʧi.rwa.dzi.wa/ Why are you hurting?
Maitiro ekugadzira chingwa? /ma.i.ti.ro e.ku.ga.zi.ra tʃin.gwa/ How to make bread?

Practice Exercises[edit | edit source]

Now that you have learned about question words, it's time to put your knowledge to the test! Below are some exercises designed to help you practice what you've learned.

Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks[edit | edit source]

Complete the following questions by filling in the blanks with the appropriate question words.

1. ___ uri kuenda? (Where are you going?)

2. ___ ndiwe? (Who are you?)

3. ___ tichasangana? (When shall we meet?)

4. ___ chiri kuitika? (What is happening?)

5. ___ uchida? (What do you want?)

Solutions:

1. Papi uri kuenda?

2. Ani ndiwe?

3. Rini tichasangana?

4. Chii chiri kuitika?

5. Chii uchida?

Exercise 2: Rewrite the Questions[edit | edit source]

Rewrite the following sentences into questions using the appropriate question word.

1. You are coming. (Who)

2. The book is on the table. (What)

3. She is happy. (Why)

4. They are playing. (How)

5. We will eat. (When)

Solutions:

1. Ani ari kuuya?

2. Chii chiri patafura?

3. Sei achifara?

4. Maitiro avari kutamba?

5. Rini tichadya?

Exercise 3: Match the Questions[edit | edit source]

Match the questions on the left with their answers on the right.

| Question | Answer |

| --- | --- |

| 1. Ani akakubatsira? | a. Chii chiri kufamba? |

| 2. Chii chiri kutengwa? | b. Rini uchauya? |

| 3. Papi pane chingwa? | c. Ndiri kufara. |

| 4. Sei uri kupindura? | d. Pano. |

| 5. Rini uchauya? | e. Ndiri kubatsira. |

Solutions:

1 - e, 2 - a, 3 - d, 4 - c, 5 - b.

Exercise 4: Create Your Own Questions[edit | edit source]

Using the question words learned, create five questions about your daily life. Share them with a classmate for practice.

Example:

1. Chii chaunoda kuita mangwana? (What do you want to do tomorrow?)

Exercise 5: Listening Exercise[edit | edit source]

Listen to a native speaker ask questions using the question words. Write down the questions you hear and translate them into English.

Solutions to be shared in class.

Exercise 6: Group Discussion[edit | edit source]

In small groups, use the question words to ask each other about your weekend plans. Make sure to use a variety of question words.

Example Questions:

  • Ani achauya newe?
  • Papi muchaenda?
  • Rini muchatanga?

Exercise 7: True or False[edit | edit source]

Read the statements below and decide if they are true or false. Correct the false ones.

1. Chii chiri kutamba? (What is playing?)

2. Ani akabvunza? (Who asked?)

3. Papi pane munda? (Where is the garden?)

4. Sei uri kufara? (Why are you sad?)

5. Rini uchamuka? (When will you wake up?)

Solutions:

1. False: Chii chiri kutamba? (What is playing?)

2. True

3. True

4. False: Sei uri kusuruvara? (Why are you sad?)

5. True

Exercise 8: Role Play[edit | edit source]

In pairs, create a short role play where one person asks questions using the question words, and the other answers. Switch roles and repeat.

Exercise 9: Translation Exercise[edit | edit source]

Translate the following questions from English to Shona.

1. Who is your friend?

2. What are you doing?

3. Where did you go?

4. When will you come back?

5. Why are you late?

Solutions:

1. Ani shamwari yako?

2. Chii chauri kuita?

3. Papi wawakaenda?

4. Rini uchadzoka?

5. Sei uri kunonoka?

Exercise 10: Quiz[edit | edit source]

A short quiz to assess your understanding of question words. Answer the questions and discuss with your teacher.

1. What is the Shona word for “where”?

2. How do you ask “who” in Shona?

3. Write a question using “why.”

4. What is the difference between “sei” and “maitiro”?

5. Formulate a question using “what.”

Solutions:

1. Papi

2. Ani

3. (Student's response)

4. Sei asks for a reason, while maitiro asks for a method.

5. (Student's response)

Conclusion[edit | edit source]

Congratulations on completing this lesson on question words in Shona! By mastering these essential words and practicing their use in questions, you have taken a significant step toward becoming proficient in the language. Remember, asking questions is a powerful tool in communication, allowing you to connect with others and learn more about the culture and people around you. Keep practicing, and don’t hesitate to ask questions when in doubt!

Table of Contents - Shona Course - 0 to A1[edit source]


Introduction to Shona


Greetings and Introductions


Nouns and Pronouns


Numbers and Time


Verbs and Tenses


Family and Relationships


Adjectives and Adverbs


Food and Dining


Prepositions and Conjunctions


Travel and Transportation


Shona Culture and Traditions


Asking Questions


Shopping and Money


Music and Dance

Sources[edit | edit source]


Other Lessons[edit | edit source]




◀️ Festivals and Celebrations — Previous Lesson Next Lesson — Indirect Questions ▶️

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