mbali — meaning in English: far

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nane

pale

sifa

ushirikiano

mbali

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers use the word 'mbali' when describing distance, such as when giving directions or talking about travel. For instance, one might say, 'Nyumba yangu iko mbali,' meaning 'My house is far away.' It’s also common in conversations about plans, like when friends discuss meeting locations that are far from their homes.

Synonyms & nuances

'Mbali' can be closely related to 'kubwa,' which means 'big' or 'great' in size but can imply a sense of distance in certain contexts. However, 'mbali' specifically conveys the idea of far-off places or times, making it the preferred choice when discussing distance rather than size.

Culture

The word 'mbali' has roots in the Bantu languages, which are prominent across East, Central, and Southern Africa. In various contexts, 'mbali' can also reflect the physical distance between people or places, but it can metaphorically express emotional distance in conversations, illustrating the rich connection between language and culture in Swahili-speaking regions.

FAQ

Q.What does the Swahili word 'mbali' mean?

'Mbali' translates to 'far' in English, indicating a significant distance from a reference point.

Q.How do you use 'mbali' in a sentence?

'Mbali' can be used in sentences like 'Mji huu uko mbali,' which means 'This town is far away.' It’s essential to place it in contexts involving distance.

Q.Are there other words in Swahili that mean 'far'?

Yes, another term is ' mbali mbali,' which means 'various' or 'many kinds,' and can also suggest distance in a broader context. However, 'mbali' is the straightforward term for physical distance.

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Swahili Vocabulary