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Unapaswa kuwa mfano mzuri, ili wengine wasiweze kuiga tabia mbaya.

Unapaswa kuwa mfano mzuri, ili wengine wasiweze kuiga tabia mbaya.
You should be a good example, so that others cannot imitate bad behavior.
FromLesson 15inHardcore Swahili
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Questions & Answers about Unapaswa kuwa mfano mzuri, ili wengine wasiweze kuiga tabia mbaya.

What does "unapaswa" mean, and how is it formed in this sentence?
"Unapaswa" means "you should". It’s formed by taking the subject prefix "u-" (referring to "you") and adding the modal element "paswa", which expresses obligation or the necessity to do something.
What role does "kuwa" play in the sentence?
"Kuwa" means "to be" and functions as the infinitive verb that links the modal phrase "unapaswa" with what follows—in this case, "mfano mzuri" ("a good example"). It essentially connects the obligation with the state or quality one is expected to exhibit.
How would you translate "mfano mzuri" into English?
"Mfano mzuri" translates directly to "a good example". Here, "mfano" means "example", and "mzuri" means "good".
What is the function of "ili" in this sentence, and how does it connect the two parts?
"Ili" is used to introduce a purpose clause, translating roughly as "so that" or "in order that". It connects the main directive—"Unapaswa kuwa mfano mzuri" ("You should be a good example")—to the purpose behind it, which is explained in the latter part of the sentence.
Can you break down the clause "wengine wasiweze kuiga tabia mbaya" and explain its meaning?

Certainly. This clause can be subdivided as follows: • "Wengine" means "others". • "Wasiweze" is the negative potential form of the verb "kuweza" (to be able to), meaning "cannot" or suggesting that they should not be in a position to do something. • "Kuiga" translates as "to imitate". • "Tabia mbaya" means "bad behavior". Combined, the clause means "so that others cannot imitate bad behavior", explaining the intended effect of being a good example.