I'm learning Kiswahili

upelelezi — meaning in English: investigation

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for investigation
ndiyo
kula
baridi
upelelezi
kufanya maamuzi
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Swahili for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
formal common
Usage
Native speakers commonly use the word 'upelelezi' in formal contexts, such as law enforcement or legal discussions. For example, a police officer might discuss 'upelelezi' when explaining the steps taken during a criminal investigation, or a lawyer might cite the term when talking about the investigative process in court.
Synonyms & nuances
While 'upelelezi' specifically refers to an investigation, a similar word, 'uchunguzi,' can mean inquiry or examination. You would use 'upelelezi' when referencing organized investigations, particularly in legal contexts, while 'uchunguzi' could be used more broadly for any type of inquiry.
Culture
'Upelelezi' has roots in the Swahili language that reflect the importance of community and collaborative problem-solving in many African cultures. Historically, investigations in tribal societies often involved community elders, illustrating a blend of traditional practices and modern investigative methods.
FAQ
Q.What does 'upelelezi' mean in English?
'Upelelezi' translates to 'investigation' in English and is often used in legal or formal contexts to refer to the process of examining facts to find out more about a situation.
Q.How do you use 'upelelezi' in a sentence?
You can use it in a sentence like: 'Polisi walifanya upelelezi kuhusu mauaji,' which means 'The police conducted an investigation into the murder.'
Q.Is there a formal or informal way to say 'investigation' in Swahili?
'Upelelezi' is the formal term for 'investigation.' In informal contexts, you might hear 'uchunguzi' being used, but it's generally broader and less specific.
Learn swahili with Maspeak →
Swahili Vocabulary