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Niger-Congo • Bantu (Nguni)
Zulu
isiZulu
12+ millionspeakers
South AfricaZimbabweLesothoMalawiMozambique
Hello
Sawubona
Thank You
Ngiyabonga
Goodbye
Sala kahle
About Zulu
Zulu (isiZulu) is the most widely spoken home language in South Africa, spoken by about 23% of the population. It belongs to the Nguni branch of Bantu languages and features click consonants adopted from Khoisan languages. Zulu has a rich oral tradition and is known for its powerful praise poetry (izibongo).
History
The Zulu language rose to prominence with the Zulu Kingdom under Shaka in the early 19th century. The language spread as the Zulu nation expanded its influence. During apartheid, Zulu was one of the languages promoted in Bantu education, and it remains one of South Africa's 11 official languages.
Writing System
Latin alphabet
Dialects
Standard ZuluKwaZuluQwabeNdebele
Common Phrases
| English | Zulu | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Sawubona | sa-wu-BO-na |
| How are you? | Unjani? | un-JA-ni |
| I'm fine | Ngiyaphila | ngi-ya-PEE-la |
| Thank you | Ngiyabonga | ngi-ya-BON-ga |
| Welcome | Wamukelekile | wa-mu-ke-le-KEE-le |
| Yes | Yebo | YEH-bo |
| No | Cha | CHA |
| Please | Ngiyacela | ngi-ya-CE-la |
Learning Resources
Help Preserve Zulu
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