wanzo
infix

In the Shona language (or Chivanhu), wanzo is an infix (i.e., a word put inside other words) that means "usually" or "often." It indicates that something happens frequently or regularly.

Example sentences for wanzo

  • Anowanzoenda kubasa. (He usually goes to work.)
  • Vano wanzodya sadza. (They often eat sadza.)
  • Tinowanzonwa mvura. (We usually drink water.)
  • Mwana anomuka mangwanani. (The child wakes up early.)
    • Mwana anowanzomuka mangwanani. (The child usually wakes up early.)
  • Tinoenda kumusha. (We go to the village.)
    • Tinowanzoenda kumusha. (We usually go to the village.)
  • Anobata basa. (He/She works.)
    • Anowanzobata basa. (He/She often works.)

Let's take some more examples:​

  • Tamba (play) becomes wanzotamba (usually play/plays often)
  • Famba (walk) becomes wanzofamba (usually walk/walks often)
  • Verenga (read) becomes wanzoverenga (usually read/reads often)
This infix adds a nuanced layer to Shona verbs, allowing for a more precise expression of habitual actions. It's a great example of how Shona grammar effectively conveys subtle meanings.
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