sehemu — meaning in English: part

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nguzo

sehemu

zuri

kupambana

kanuni

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers use the word 'sehemu' when discussing components or segments of a whole, whether in everyday conversations about family roles or in more technical discussions about machinery parts. For instance, one might say 'sehemu ya nyumba' to refer to a part of a house, or in a classroom setting, students might discuss the 'sehemu' of a story during a literature lesson.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym of 'sehemu' is 'kipande,' which also means 'part' but often refers to a piece that is cut off or broken from a whole. You would choose 'sehemu' in more abstract contexts, like discussing roles in a community, whereas 'kipande' is more often used for tangible, physical segments.

Culture

'Sehemu' has roots in the Swahili language that can be traced back to Arabic, reflecting the historical interactions between Arab traders and the East African coast. This word not only signifies a physical part but also embodies the importance of unity and interconnectedness in cultures, where each 'sehemu' plays a crucial role in the greater whole.

FAQ

Q.What does 'sehemu' mean in English?

'Sehemu' translates to 'part' in English, and is commonly used to describe a segment or component of something larger.

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

You can use 'sehemu' in sentences like 'Hii ni sehemu ya mchakato wa uzalishaji,' which means 'This is a part of the production process.'

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'sehemu'?

A common mistake is using 'sehemu' exclusively for physical parts; remember, it can also refer to abstract parts, such as themes in a story or roles in a community.

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Swahili Vocabulary