Learn Hardcore Swahili: Ni muhimu ujilinde dhidi ya adui yeyote, hasa unapotembea usiku. - It is important that you protect yourself against any enemy, especially when walking at night.

Ni muhimu translates to “it is important” or “it is necessary.” It serves as an introductory phrase that emphasizes the significance of the advice that follows, setting a cautionary tone for the reader.

How is the word ujilinde constructed, and what does it mean?

Ujilinde is formed from the verb kujilinda which means “to protect oneself.” The construction includes the prefix u-, which here functions to address the listener (similar to an imperative or subjunctive form), the reflexive marker ji- indicating “oneself,” and the root linde meaning “protect.” Together, it conveys the idea “protect yourself.”

What is the meaning and role of dhidi ya adui yeyote in the sentence?

Dhidi ya adui yeyote means “against any enemy.” The preposition dhidi ya translates as “against,” adui means “enemy,” and yeyote functions as an all-encompassing qualifier meaning “any.” It specifies that the advice about self-protection applies regardless of who might be considered an enemy.

How does the word hasa function in this sentence?

Hasa translates to “especially” and is used to highlight or emphasize the condition that follows. In the sentence, it underscores that extra caution is necessary during a specific circumstance—namely, when walking at night.

Can you explain the structure and meaning of unapotembea usiku?

Unapotembea usiku breaks down as follows: una- is the present tense marker for “you,” tembea means “walk,” and usiku means “night.” Combined, this subordinate clause means “when you are walking at night.” It provides the particular condition under which self-protection is emphasized by the earlier part of the sentence.