Language/Shona/Vocabulary/Shopping-Vocabulary
Introduction
In today's lesson, we will learn how to communicate in Shona while shopping. We will cover key vocabulary, phrases, and customs related to shopping as we continue on our journey of learning the Shona language. Whether you are traveling to Zimbabwe or just want to impress your Shona-speaking friends, this lesson will come in handy! 🛍️
After mastering this shopping vocabulary, you might also be interested in exploring other related Shona lessons, such as Shona food vocabulary, Shona drinks vocabulary, and common Shona foods and dining phrases. These lessons will further enhance your understanding of the Shona language and culture. Happy learning!
Shops and Stores
Let's start with some of the most common types of stores in Zimbabwe:
| Shona | Pronunciation | English Translation |
|---|---|---|
| Mabhizimisi | ma-bee-zee-misi | Groceries |
| Kanhati | kan-ha-tee | Clothing Store |
| Zvinyorwa | zvi-nyor-wa | Bookstore |
| Duka | doo-ka | General Store |
| Mekedoni | me-ke-do-nee | McDonald's |
| Bondu | bohn-doo | Boutique |
Items at the Store
Now we will learn some vocabulary for different items that you might find while shopping.
Food and Drinks
Here are some words for food and drinks in Shona:
- Sadza - a staple food made from cornmeal
- Nyama - meat
- Muriwo - vegetables
- Mazai - eggs
- Amacimbi - Mopane worms (a popular delicacy in Zimbabwe)
- Chirongwa - peanuts
- Madora - mopane worms (another word for this popular snack)
- Mufushwa - pumpkin leaves
- Maputi - popcorn
- Chiwaya - sugar cane
- Mabhurugwa - blueberries
For drinks:
- Maheu - a traditional, non-alcoholic drink made from maize meal and water
- Doro - beer
- Whiskey - whiskey (this is usually pronounced the same as in English, but with a Shona accent)
- Chibuku - a traditional, locally brewed beer
Clothing and Accessories
- Machinga - sandals
- Mabhurutse - socks
- Mbubu - a traditional Shona dress worn by women
- Mumhepo - a scarf
- Mutsago - a hat
- Sunglasses - sunglasses (usually pronounced the same as in English, but with a Shona accent)
Electronics and Other
- Mafoni - phones
- Mhepo - air conditioning
- Ruki - a stove
- Gungano - a fan
- Roko - a broom
Phrases for Shopping
Now that we have learned some vocabulary, let's look at how we can use it in phrases related to shopping.
Asking about Price
When you see an item in a store and are curious about its price, you may ask:
- Imarii? - How much?
The seller will then respond with the price of the item.
Asking for a Discount
If you are interested in buying an item but think the price is too high, you can try to negotiate:
- Kuno unenge uri kuti handishande? - Can't you give me a discount?
- Handina mari yakawanda - I don't have a lot of money.
If the seller agrees to a lower price, they will usually say so and you can continue with the purchase.
Buying Items
When you are ready to buy an item, you can use the following phrases:
- Ndinehurombo hwemari yakanaka - I have good money
- Kune mushandi here? - Is there a worker ?
- Ndinotenga iyi - I'll buy this one.
- Ndinomuda iyi - I like this one.
Shona Currency
The official currency of Zimbabwe is the United States Dollar. However, Zimbabwe also uses its own currency for most transactions, including coins and banknotes:
- Bond Note - 10 Bond Notes equal 1 US Dollar.
- Bond Coin- Bond Coins come in 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 cent denominations.
- EcoCash - A digital wallet commonly used for transactions in Zimbabwe.
Cultural Tips
When shopping in Zimbabwe, it is important to be aware of a few cultural customs:
- Haggling is common in markets and bazaars, but it is not usually done in large retail stores.
- It is customary to greet the shopkeeper and employees when entering and leaving a store.
- Always ask for permission before taking photographs inside a store.
Conclusion
Congratulations! 🎉 You have learned some valuable Shona vocabulary and phrases for shopping. Continue practicing and you will soon be able to navigate any store in Zimbabwe with confidence. In the next lesson, we will learn how to discuss money and prices in Shona. Don't forget to check out our other lessons on Shona numbers 1-10, describing relationships in Shona, and telling time in Shona to further enhance your language skills. Happy learning! 😊