Wewe unataka kusoma nje?

you

Breakdown of Wewe unataka kusoma nje?

• kutaka: to want
• je: do
• nje: outside
• kusoma: to read

Questions & Answers about Wewe unataka kusoma nje?

Why is Wewe (meaning you) included here when unataka also indicates "you"?

In Swahili, you can simply say Unataka kusoma nje? and it will be understood as "Do you want to read/study outside?" because the prefix u- in unataka already indicates the second-person singular. However, adding Wewe can provide emphasis or clarity, somewhat like saying "You—do you want to read/study outside?" in English.

What does the prefix u- in unataka signify?

The prefix u- is the singular second-person subject prefix in Swahili, usually translated as "you" in English. It tells us that the subject of the verb is "you."

How do I know when to translate kusoma as “to read” versus “to study”?

In everyday Swahili, kusoma can mean both “to read” and “to study,” depending on the context. If someone specifically means “study,” context clues might include discussing school, lessons, or preparing for an exam. If it’s more about reading a book or text for pleasure or information, then “read” might be more appropriate.

Why is nje used here, and does it always mean “outside” in a physical sense?

Nje generally means “outside” in most physical contexts. You can also see it used idiomatically in phrases, but in this sentence, it directly refers to being outdoors.

Is there a difference if I ask Je, unataka kusoma nje? instead of Wewe unataka kusoma nje?

Adding Je at the beginning is another (fairly standard) way of forming a question in Swahili. It doesn't change the meaning much; it simply gives a more explicit marker of a question. Using Wewe can emphasize the “you” part, whereas Je simply sets up the question form more formally.