Usisahau kuongeza unga kidogo zaidi kama donge linashikamana.

Do not forget to add a bit more flour if the dough is too sticky.

Breakdown of Usisahau kuongeza unga kidogo zaidi kama donge linashikamana.

• kama: if
• kuongeza: to add
• kusahau: to forget
• zaidi: more
• kidogo: a little
• unga: the flour
• kushikamana: to stick

Questions & Answers about Usisahau kuongeza unga kidogo zaidi kama donge linashikamana.

What does Usisahau mean, and how is it constructed grammatically?

Usisahau means "Don't forget." It is formed by combining the negative imperative prefix usi- with the verb sahau (which means "forget"). In Swahili, this construction is used to issue commands telling someone not to do something.

Why is kuongeza in the infinitive form, and how does it relate to the command?

Kuongeza is the infinitive form of the verb meaning "to add." In this sentence, it follows usisahau to indicate the action that should not be forgotten. This use of the infinitive after a command is common in Swahili, linking the reminder directly to the suggested action.

What is the significance of the words kidogo zaidi in this sentence?

Kidogo translates to "a little" and zaidi means "more." When combined, they specify that only a small extra amount of flour should be added. This clarifies that the adjustment is modest—just enough to address the condition described later.

How does the word kama function within the sentence?

Kama functions as a conjunction meaning "when" or "if." It introduces the condition under which extra flour should be added, linking the command to the observable state of the dough. Essentially, it tells the listener that the additional flour is needed if the dough is sticking together.

What does the phrase donge linashikamana mean, and what does it tell us about the dough?

The word donge means "dough," and linashikamana translates to "sticks together" or "clumps together." This phrase describes a situation where the dough becomes overly sticky, which is the signal for adding a little extra flour. Additionally, note that the subject prefix li- in linashikamana agrees with donge, reflecting proper subject-verb concord in Swahili.

Are there any specific grammatical markers in linashikamana that indicate subject-verb agreement?

Yes. In linashikamana, the li- prefix is a subject concord marker that matches the noun donge. Swahili nouns belong to different classes, and verbs must agree with their subjects through these markers. This agreement is essential for conveying the correct meaning and maintaining proper grammar in the sentence.