Learn Hardcore Swahili: Wengine wanasisitiza kwamba mvinyo unapaswa kunywewa baada ya chakula, huku wengine wakipendelea pombe baridi wakati wa chakula. - Some insist that wine should be drunk after the meal, while others prefer cold beer during the meal.

“Wanasisitiza” comes from the verb kusisitiza meaning “to insist.” The prefix wana- indicates the subject “they” in the present tense. Thus, it translates as “they insist,” showing that some people strongly assert the following point.

What is the function of “kwamba” in this clause?

“Kwamba” acts as a subordinating conjunction similar to the English word “that.” It introduces the clause explaining what is being insisted upon—namely, that wine should be drunk after a meal.

Why is the passive form “kunywewa” used instead of the active form “kunywa”?

The form “kunywewa” is the passive infinitive derived from kunywa (to drink). It is used here to express that wine should be consumed without specifying who does the drinking. This passive construction is common in Swahili when giving recommendations or instructions.

How does the clause “huku wengine wakipendelea pombe baridi wakati wa chakula” add contrast to the sentence?

The second clause uses “huku,” meaning “while” or “whereas,” to set up a contrast. It explains that while some insist that wine be drunk after a meal, others prefer to drink cold alcoholic beverages during the meal. This juxtaposition highlights different preferences regarding when and what to drink.

What is the difference between “mvinyo” and “pombe” in this context?

In this sentence, mvinyo specifically refers to wine, whereas pombe is a more general term for alcoholic beverages—often implying beer. The adjective baridi (meaning "cold") further specifies that the preferred drink in the second opinion is typically served cold.