Useful Phrases

1. Ndimachokera ku ___.

   I come from ___.

   Usage

   The answer to "Mumachokera kuti?"; put a country or town in the blank

   Grammar Note

   The root -chokera means "come from".

2. Ndili pano koyamba.

   It is my first time here.

   Usage

   A conversation opener at a place you have never visited

   Grammar Note

   "koyamba" means "for the first time". Composed from dictionary-verified words with regular grammar.

3. Ndikuyenda ndekha.

   I am travelling alone.

   Usage

   Tells people you travel by yourself

   Grammar Note

   The root -yenda means "walk, travel". Composed from dictionary-verified words with regular grammar.

4. Kodi ndingajambule chithunzi chanu?

   May I take your photo?

   Usage

   Always ask before photographing a person

   Grammar Note

   The Peace Corps text has "kujambula zithunzi" for taking pictures. Composed from dictionary-verified words with regular grammar.

5. Tijambule chithunzi pamodzi.

   Let us take a photo together.

   Usage

   Suggests a photo with someone you have met

   Grammar Note

   The ti-…-e form is the "let us" subjunctive. Composed from dictionary-verified words with regular grammar.

6. Ndimakonda Malawi.

   I like Malawi.

   Usage

   A friendly line in small talk with locals

   Grammar Note

   The root -konda means "like"; -ma- marks a habitual state. Composed from dictionary-verified words with regular grammar.

7. Sindikufuna kugula, zikomo.

   I do not want to buy, thank you.

   Usage

   A polite way to turn down a sales pitch

   Grammar Note

   "sindikufuna" is si- (not) + ndi- (I) + -ku- (now) + -funa (want). Composed from dictionary-verified words with regular grammar.

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