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
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
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
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
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
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
More Maasai phrases
- Basic Words
- Basic Nouns
- Basic Verbs
- Adjectives
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