While there isn't one single, direct translation for "please" in Shona, here are a few ways to express politeness and make a request:
  • Ndapota ndipeiwo mvura. (Please give me some water.)
  • Ndapota vhurai gonhi. (Please open the door.)
  • Ndapota, usavhara musuwo. (Please, don't close the door.)
Adding "-wo" or "-iwo" at the end of the verb softens the request and makes it more polite.
  • Ndipeiwo sadza. (Please give me some sadza.)
  • Tibatsireiwo. (Please help us.)
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