About

Tsumo (proverbs) and madimikira (idioms) are where the Shona language keeps its wisdom. A good tsumo can settle an argument, comfort a friend or teach a child in a handful of words. Madimikira give everyday speech its colour, saying one thing and meaning another.

Many of these sayings are falling out of daily use. Tsumo is a simple, open dictionary for them. Each entry gives the saying in Shona, a literal English translation, and an explanation of what it means and when it is used.

What's here

• Tsumo: Shona proverbs
• Madimikira: Shona idioms
• Themes: browse by what a saying speaks to

What's next

We plan to add translations into more languages, and examples of each saying in use, contributed by the people who use them.

Tsumo is a sister project to Mitupo, which celebrates Zimbabwean totems.

Maita basa! (Thank you!)