Vehicles

6 phrases · Maasai with romanization, English and audio

  1. Matatu

    Matatu (shared minibus)

    Usage

    The shared minibus used in Kenyan towns. Name it first when you ask about a stop or a destination

    Grammar Note

    A word taken from Swahili and used as it is. A native Maa word was not found. Borrowed word; native review recommended

  2. Bodaboda

    Boda boda (motorbike taxi)

    Usage

    The motorbike taxi used for short trips

    Grammar Note

    A word used across East Africa, said as it is. A native Maa word was not found. Borrowed word; native review recommended

  3. Embasikil

    Bicycle

    Usage

    Means a bicycle; use it when you want to rent one or point at someone riding one

    Grammar Note

    It came from English "bicycle"; the prefix "em-" is written joined to the word. Southern speakers also have another word, "enkideere". Borrowed word; native review recommended

  4. Lori

    Truck

    Usage

    Means a truck that carries goods

    Grammar Note

    A word taken from English "lorry" and used as it is. A native Maa word was not found. Borrowed word; native review recommended

  5. Emeli

    Boat or ship

    Usage

    Means a ship or larger boat on the water

    Grammar Note

    A noun whose prefix "e-" is written joined to the word. It is regarded as a northern word, but it is common in both writing and speech

  6. Emashua

    Boat

    Usage

    Means a small boat on a lake or river

    Grammar Note

    A noun whose prefix "e-" is written joined to the word. Some speakers do not know it outside written texts

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