Learn Hardcore Swahili: Ningependa kuokota mawe madogo ili tucheze mchezo wa kurusha. - I would like to pick up small stones so that we can play the throwing game.

Ningependa translates to “I would like.” It is the first person singular conditional form derived from the verb kupenda (“to like”). In this structure, it expresses a polite desire to perform the action that follows.

What is the meaning of kuokota, and why is it in its infinitive form?

Kuokota means “to pick up” or “to gather.” In Swahili, when a verb follows an expression of desire like ningependa, it remains in the infinitive form. This construction clearly indicates that the intended action is to pick up the small stones.

How are mawe and madogo used in the sentence, and what do they mean?

Mawe means “stones” (in plural), and madogo means “small.” Together, they form the noun phrase “small stones,” which is the object of the action described by kuokota.

What function does the word ili serve in this sentence?

Ili functions as a conjunction meaning “in order to” or “so that.” It introduces the purpose clause, explaining why the stones are being picked up.

How is the phrase tucheze mchezo wa kurusha constructed, and what does it convey?

Tucheze is the subjunctive form of cheza (“to play”) used in the first person plural, suggesting an invitation or plan for collective action. Mchezo means “game,” and wa kurusha translates as “of throwing” or “throwing.” Together, this phrase conveys the idea “(so that) we may play a throwing game.”