Ku zauna a ɗaki nan.

to sit

Breakdown of Ku zauna a ɗaki nan.

• ku: you (plural)
• nan: this
• ɗaki: the room

Questions & Answers about Ku zauna a ɗaki nan.

Why do we use Ku instead of Ka or Ki in this command?

In Hausa, Ku is used when speaking to more than one person (plural) or as a polite/formal singular. Ka is used for a singular male (casual), and Ki is used for a singular female (casual). Since the sentence addresses more than one person (or is politely addressing one person), Ku is the appropriate choice.

What does zauna mean, and why is it in this form?

Zauna is the imperative form of the verb meaning sit. In Hausa, the imperative typically uses the bare stem of the verb. Since this sentence is a command telling people to sit, zauna is in its commanding form.

Why do we say a ɗaki and not simply a ɗaki without nan?

While a ɗaki means in the room, adding nan (meaning here) clarifies which specific room you are referring to. So a ɗaki nan is in this room here, making the location more explicit.

Is there a difference between saying nan at the end versus saying nan before ɗaki?

In modern usage, Ku zauna a ɗaki nan and Ku zauna a nan ɗaki can both indicate Sit in this room, but placing nan after ɗaki often sounds more natural. Putting nan before ɗaki is still understood, but less common in everyday speech.

When would you use this sentence in a real conversation?

You would say Ku zauna a ɗaki nan when you want multiple people (or a single individual politely) to sit in a particular room. For instance, if guests arrive in your home, you might show them which room to use by saying this command.