Mimi ninataka kupunguza kazi yangu.

I want to reduce my work.

Breakdown of Mimi ninataka kupunguza kazi yangu.

• mimi: I
• kutaka: to want
• kazi: the work
• kupunguza: to reduce

Questions & Answers about Mimi ninataka kupunguza kazi yangu.

Why is the subject Mimi explicitly included in the sentence even though the verb already conveys the first-person?

In Swahili, subject pronouns like Mimi (meaning I) are optional because the verb already carries a subject marker—in this case, the prefix ni- in ninataka. The pronoun is often included for clarity, emphasis, or when contrasting subjects in conversation.

How is the verb ninataka constructed, and what does it express?

The verb ninataka means I want. It is built from three parts: the subject prefix ni- (for I), the tense marker -na- (indicating present or immediate action), and the root taka (which means want). This structure is a common pattern in Swahili verb conjugation.

What is the function of the prefix ku- in kupunguza?

The prefix ku- in kupunguza is the infinitive marker in Swahili. By attaching ku- to the verb root punguza (meaning reduce), it turns the verb into its infinitive form—to reduce. This allows it to follow verbs like ninataka, which require an infinitive to complete the action.

How is possession indicated in the phrase kazi yangu?

In kazi yangu, the noun kazi means work (or job) and yangu is the possessive adjective meaning my. Unlike English, where the possessive pronoun precedes the noun, Swahili places it after the noun to express ownership. Thus, kazi yangu translates directly to my work.

Is it necessary to always include Mimi at the beginning of such sentences?

No, it is not necessary. Because the verb ninataka already includes the subject marker ni-, you can omit Mimi without losing meaning—especially when the context clearly defines the subject. Including Mimi can be useful for emphasis or to eliminate any potential ambiguity, particularly in contexts where multiple subjects might be involved.