Learn Hardcore Swahili: Tuwe makini tunapobeba kuni, ili tusijeruhi miguu yetu. - Let us be careful when carrying firewood, so that we do not injure our feet.

Tuwe makini translates to "Let's be careful." It is formed using the first person plural subjunctive of kuwa ("to be")—here, tuwe—combined with the adjective makini ("careful" or "attentive"). This construction is commonly used in Swahili to give collective advice or instructions.

How is the verb form tunapobeba constructed, and what does it indicate?

Tunapobeba is derived from the basic verb beba ("to carry"). The prefix tuna- marks the subject as we in the present tense, while the infix -po- is a relative marker that means "when" in temporal contexts. Thus, tunapobeba means "when we are carrying," specifying the time frame of the action.

What does the word kuni refer to in this sentence?

Kuni means "wood" or, more specifically, "firewood." In this context, it is the object being carried and is typically understood as the kind of wood used for burning.

What role does the word ili play in the sentence?

Ili functions as a purpose connector, translating to "so that" or "in order that." It introduces a clause that explains the intended outcome of being careful—that is, to avoid injury.

How is the negative subjunctive form tusijeruhi formed, and what does it convey?

Tusijeruhi is constructed by adding the first person plural marker tu- to the negative marker si- and the verb stem jeruhi from kujeruhi ("to injure"). This negative subjunctive form is used to state a desired prevention, meaning "that we do not injure." It expresses the aim of avoiding injury during the action described.

What does the phrase miguu yetu mean, and why is the possessive placed after the noun?

Miguu yetu translates to "our feet." In Swahili, possessive adjectives like yetu ("our") are typically positioned after the noun they modify. This structure confirms that the feet (or legs) being referred to belong to us, emphasizing collective responsibility for our well‐being.