Learn Hardcore Swahili: Mimi nafanya kazi ili nipate mali.

Mimi translates to "I" in English. In Swahili, while subject pronouns are often included for emphasis or clarity, the verb conjugation already implies the subject. Here, stating Mimi clearly identifies who is performing the action.

What does nafanya kazi mean, and how is it structured?

Nafanya kazi means "I work." The verb fanya means "to do" or "to work," and the prefix na- indicates the present tense. Together with Mimi, this construction explicitly tells us that the speaker is currently working.

How is the word ili used in this sentence?

Ili functions as a purpose marker, equivalent to "in order to" or "so that" in English. It connects the first clause (the action) with the second clause (the goal), explaining why the speaker works.

Why is the verb in the second clause written as nipate instead of a simple present tense form?

Nipate is the first person singular form of pata used with a subjunctive nuance. The prefix ni- refers to "I," and pate is in a form that expresses a desired or potential outcome. This usage, triggered by ili, indicates that the working is done with the intention to obtain or to get wealth.

What does mali mean in this context?

Mali typically means "wealth" or refers to material possessions or assets. In this sentence, it represents what the speaker hopes to acquire through their work.

How does the structure of this Swahili sentence compare to expressing purpose in English?

In Swahili, purpose is often expressed by using ili followed by a verb in the subjunctive or potential form (here, nipate). In English, we might say "I work so that I may get wealth" or "in order to get wealth." Both languages separate the action from its intention, but Swahili clearly marks the purpose with ili and adjusts the verb form accordingly.