A dictionary of Shona proverbs (tsumo) and idioms (madimikira), with English translations and meanings.https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/aiva-madziva-ava-mazambuko/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/aiva-madziva-ava-mazambuko/“What used to be pools are now fords.” — Circumstances change, and the once rich or powerful can lose their standing. It is said of someone whose fortunes have declined, and as a warning against arrogance.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumofatehumilityhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/ane-ganda-ane-nyama-hazvienzani-neakabata-hwowa/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/ane-ganda-ane-nyama-hazvienzani-neakabata-hwowa/“One who has a piece of skin has meat; it is not the same as holding a mushroom.” — Having a little of the real thing is better than having nothing. Be content with what you have.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumocontentmentgratitudehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chafamba-chasvava/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chafamba-chasvava/“What has travelled has wilted.” — Away from home, a person loses the status and privileges they enjoy there.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumohumilityhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chaitemura-chava-kuseva/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chaitemura-chava-kuseva/“The one who used to eat sadza plain now dips it in relish.” — Fortunes change, and a poor person can become prosperous. It is a reminder to treat everyone with respect, whatever their present position.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumofatehumilityhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chakafukidza-dzimba-matenga/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chakafukidza-dzimba-matenga/“What covers houses is the roofs.” — Every household keeps its troubles hidden behind a respectable outside, so do not judge or envy others by what you can see.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumofamilywisdomhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/charova-sei-chando-chakwidza-hamba-mumuti/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/charova-sei-chando-chakwidza-hamba-mumuti/“How hard has the cold struck, to make a tortoise climb a tree?” — Extreme circumstances make people act out of character. It is said in surprise when a capable person is seen struggling or doing something unusual.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumofatehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/charovedzera-charovedzera-gudo-rakakwira-mawere-kwasviba/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/charovedzera-charovedzera-gudo-rakakwira-mawere-kwasviba/“What is used to something is used to it: the baboon climbed the cliff after dark.” — What you have practised often, you can do with ease even in difficult conditions.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumoexperiencehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chawawana-idya-nehama-mutorwa-ane-hanganwa/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chawawana-idya-nehama-mutorwa-ane-hanganwa/“Eat what you have found with your relatives; a stranger is forgetful.” — Share your good fortune with your family, who will stand by you, because outsiders quickly forget a favour.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumofamilyreciprocityhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chembere-mukadzi-hazvienzani-nokurara-mugota/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chembere-mukadzi-hazvienzani-nokurara-mugota/“An old woman is still a wife; it is not the same as sleeping in the bachelors' hut.” — Something less than ideal is still better than nothing at all.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumocontentmenthttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chenga-ose-manhanga-hapana-risina-mhodzi/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chenga-ose-manhanga-hapana-risina-mhodzi/“Keep all the pumpkins; there is none without seeds.” — Everyone and everything has some value, so do not throw anything away or look down on anyone.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumorespectwisdomhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chidamwoyo-hamba-yakada-makwati/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chidamwoyo-hamba-yakada-makwati/“It is what the heart wants: the tortoise chose its shell.” — Everyone is free to choose what they want, even when others find the choice strange. It is often said of a choice of marriage partner.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumorelationshipshttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chidziva-chakadzikama-ndicho-chinogara-ngwena/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chidziva-chakadzikama-ndicho-chinogara-ngwena/“It is the calm pool that is home to the crocodile.” — Do not be fooled by a quiet surface. Danger can hide behind calm, and quiet people can be more formidable than they look.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumocautionhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chigare-chenda-kudya-akaitakura/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chigare-chenda-kudya-akaitakura/“It is the louse's way to bite the one who carries it.” — It is said of ingratitude, when someone harms the very person who supports them.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumogratitudehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chinokanganwa-idemo-chitsiga-hachikanganwe/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chinokanganwa-idemo-chitsiga-hachikanganwe/“The axe forgets; the tree stump does not.” — The person who causes harm soon forgets it, but the one who was harmed remembers for a long time.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumoconsequencesrelationshipshttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chinokura-usipo-imombe-munda-unokura-nokuvandurirwa/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chinokura-usipo-imombe-munda-unokura-nokuvandurirwa/“What grows in your absence is cattle; a field grows by being extended.” — Some things grow by themselves, but real progress needs constant work and presence.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumohard-workhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chinono-chine-ngwe-bere-rakadya-richifamba/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chinono-chine-ngwe-bere-rakadya-richifamba/“Taking it slowly is the leopard's way; the hyena ate while on the move.” — Act promptly when an opportunity comes, before it is lost.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumowisdomhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chinonyenga-chinokotama-chinosimudza-musoro-chawana/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chinonyenga-chinokotama-chinosimudza-musoro-chawana/“The one who is courting bows low; it lifts its head once it has got what it wanted.” — People are humble and obliging while they want something, and turn proud once they have it. It is often said of suitors who change after marriage.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumopriderelationshipshttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chinoziva-ivhu-kuti-mwana-wembeva-anorwara/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chinoziva-ivhu-kuti-mwana-wembeva-anorwara/“Only the soil knows that the baby mouse is ill.” — The real state of someone's private life is known only to them and those closest to them.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumorelationshipswisdomhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chirere-mangwana-chigozokurerawo/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chirere-mangwana-chigozokurerawo/“Look after it, and tomorrow it will look after you.” — Care well for your children, because they will be the ones caring for you in old age.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumoparentingreciprocityhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chiri-mumwoyo-chiri-muninga/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chiri-mumwoyo-chiri-muninga/“What is in the heart is in a deep cave.” — A person's thoughts are hidden. You cannot know what someone feels unless they reveal it.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumowisdomrelationshipshttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chiri-pamuchena-chiri-pamutenure/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chiri-pamuchena-chiri-pamutenure/“What is in a poor man's hands is on a slope.” — The little a poor person has is insecure and easily lost.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumofatehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chisi-hachieri-musi-wacharimwa/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chisi-hachieri-musi-wacharimwa/“The rest day does not strike on the day it was farmed.” — The consequences of wrongdoing may not come at once, but they will come.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumoconsequenceshttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chitsva-chiri-murutsoka/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chitsva-chiri-murutsoka/“The new is in the foot.” — New experiences and opportunities come to those who travel and venture out.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumoexperiencehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chivendekete-anoseka-chimedure/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chivendekete-anoseka-chimedure/“The one with a gap in his teeth laughs at the one with a broken tooth.” — People mock faults in others that they share themselves. It is like the pot calling the kettle black.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumohumilityfoolishnesshttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chomungozva-chinodyiwa-nowabata-mwana/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chomungozva-chinodyiwa-nowabata-mwana/“A nursing mother's food is eaten by the one who holds her baby.” — Help others with what matters to them, and you will share in what they have.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumoreciprocityhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chura-kugara-mumvura-handi-kunwa/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chura-kugara-mumvura-handi-kunwa/“A frog living in water does not mean it drinks.” — Do not judge by appearances. Being in a place does not mean taking part in what happens there.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumocautionhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/dare-harizondi-munhu-rinozonda-mhosva/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/dare-harizondi-munhu-rinozonda-mhosva/“The court does not hate the person; it hates the offence.” — Justice should be impartial: judge the wrongdoing, not the individual, and hold no grudge against the accused.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumojusticeleadershiphttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/dembo-harivhiyirwi-paruzhinji/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/dembo-harivhiyirwi-paruzhinji/“A polecat is not skinned in public.” — Embarrassing or sensitive matters should be dealt with in private.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumotacthttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/dzvinyu-kuzamba-zuva-huona-bako/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/dzvinyu-kuzamba-zuva-huona-bako/“A lizard basks in the sun because it has a rock shelter in sight.” — Before taking a risk, make sure you have a way to escape if things go wrong.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumocautionwisdomhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/gondo-kuengerera-raona-zumbu/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/gondo-kuengerera-raona-zumbu/“When an eagle keeps circling, it has seen a chicken run.” — Someone who keeps hanging around has a reason for it. It is often said of a suitor.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumocautionrelationshipshttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/hapana-mhou-inokumira-mhuru-isiri-yayo/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/hapana-mhou-inokumira-mhuru-isiri-yayo/“No cow lows for a calf that is not its own.” — People care most for their own kin and seldom go out of their way for others.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumofamilyhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/harahwa-mbiri-hadzibidzani-rwizi/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/harahwa-mbiri-hadzibidzani-rwizi/“Two old men do not help each other across a river.” — People who lack the same ability cannot help each other. Seek help from someone who has what you lack.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumocooperationwisdomhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/hari-haiviri-isina-mukuchidziri/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/hari-haiviri-isina-mukuchidziri/“A pot does not boil without someone to tend the fire.” — Nothing worthwhile succeeds without steady attention and the support of others.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumohard-workcooperationhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/hurudza-inofa-ichinzi-inodya/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/hurudza-inofa-ichinzi-inodya/“A rich farmer dies of hunger while people say he is eating.” — Nobody believes that someone known to be well off could be in need, so his hardship goes unnoticed.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumocompassionhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/imbwa-mbiri-hadzitorerwi-nyama/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/imbwa-mbiri-hadzitorerwi-nyama/“Meat cannot be taken away from two dogs.” — People who stand together are hard to rob or defeat. It is used to encourage solidarity and mutual support.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumounitycooperationhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/imbwa-payadyira-haipakanganwi/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/imbwa-payadyira-haipakanganwi/“A dog does not forget the place where it was fed.” — People remember those who helped them, and turn to them again in times of need.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumogratitudereciprocityhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/ishe-vanhu/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/ishe-vanhu/“A chief is the people.” — A leader's authority comes from the people who follow him. Without them he is nothing, so he must serve them.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumoleadershiphttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kamoto-kamberevere-kanopisa-matanda-mberi/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kamoto-kamberevere-kanopisa-matanda-mberi/“A small smouldering fire burns the logs further on.” — A small problem left unchecked can grow into a serious one.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumocautionconsequenceshttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kandiro-enda-kandiro-dzoka/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kandiro-enda-kandiro-dzoka/“Little dish, go; little dish, come back.” — Kindness given is kindness returned.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumoreciprocitykindnesshttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kubata-denga/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kubata-denga/“To touch the sky.” — To be extremely happy.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikirajoyhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kubata-hana/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kubata-hana/“To hold the heart.” — To calm yourself and stay composed in a frightening or upsetting situation.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiracouragepatiencehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kubata-jongwe-muromo/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kubata-jongwe-muromo/“To grab the rooster by its beak.” — To get up very early, before the cock crows, often to set off on a journey.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikirahard-workhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kubata-kumeso/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kubata-kumeso/“To touch the face.” — To deceive someone, typically with flattery or by telling them what they want to hear.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiradeceithttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kubata-maoko/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kubata-maoko/“To hold hands.” — To offer condolences to a bereaved family.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiradeathrespecthttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kubatira-ura-mumaoko/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kubatira-ura-mumaoko/“To hold one's intestines in one's hands.” — To be terrified.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikirafearhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kubaya-gudo-nemukanwa/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kubaya-gudo-nemukanwa/“To stab a baboon through the mouth.” — To hit the mark exactly: to do something with great precision, or to do precisely what a situation calls for.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikirawisdomhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kubaya-tange-hama-vatorwa-vakutye/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kubaya-tange-hama-vatorwa-vakutye/“When you strike, start with your kin, so that outsiders respect you.” — A leader who disciplines his own relatives first shows that he is fair, and earns everyone's respect.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumoleadershipjusticehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kubva-zera/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kubva-zera/“To leave the age (of childhood).” — To come of age: to be grown up enough to support and make decisions for yourself.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikirafamilyhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuchema-misodzi-yegarwe/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuchema-misodzi-yegarwe/“To cry crocodile tears.” — To pretend to grieve or sympathise while secretly being glad about what has happened.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiradeceitsorrowhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kudada-kwevari-mugomo-kukumbira-vari-pasi-mapfihwa/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kudada-kwevari-mugomo-kukumbira-vari-pasi-mapfihwa/“It is the arrogance of those on the hill to ask those on the plain for hearthstones.” — It is shameful for people who have plenty to beg from those who have little.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumopridegreedhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kudira-jecha/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kudira-jecha/“To pour sand.” — To sabotage or spoil something, deliberately disrupting someone else's plans.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiraconflictdeceithttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kudya-magaka-mambishi/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kudya-magaka-mambishi/“To eat raw cucumbers.” — To be hot-tempered and quick to flare up in anger.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiraangerhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kudya-marasha/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kudya-marasha/“To eat live coals.” — To be furious, shouting angrily and lashing out at other people.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiraangerhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kudya-moto/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kudya-moto/“To eat fire.” — To be furious and rage at others; used in the same sense as kudya marasha.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiraangerhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuenda-kwamupfiganebwe/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuenda-kwamupfiganebwe/“To go to the place whose entrance is closed with a stone.” — A gentle way of saying that someone has died.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiradeathtacthttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kufambira-dhongi-rakaora/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kufambira-dhongi-rakaora/“To travel for a rotten donkey.” — To go to a lot of trouble for something worthless, ending up without achieving anything.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikirafoolishnesshttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kufira-mafufu-segonzo/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kufira-mafufu-segonzo/“To die for husks like a rat.” — To get into trouble or suffer for something worthless; to take a risk that brings no reward.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikirafoolishnesstroublehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kufuka-rako-woga/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kufuka-rako-woga/“To cover yourself with your own blanket, alone.” — A gentle way of saying that someone has died.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiradeathtacthttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kufukura-hapwa/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kufukura-hapwa/“To uncover the armpit.” — To tell people things that should not be told in public, exposing private or embarrassing matters.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiraspeechsecrecyhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kugara-maoko/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kugara-maoko/“To sit on one's hands.” — To be idle and do nothing, especially when there is work that should be done.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiralazinesshttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kugocha-kunoda-kwamai-kwemwana-kunodzima-moto/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kugocha-kunoda-kwamai-kwemwana-kunodzima-moto/“Roasting is fine when the mother does it; when the child does it, it puts out the fire.” — Elders and those in authority get away with what juniors are scolded for.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumoparentingleadershiphttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuigochera-pautsi/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuigochera-pautsi/“To roast it for oneself in the embers.” — To land yourself in trouble through your own actions, often without realising it.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiratroublefoolishnesshttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuisa-muromo-mumhino/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuisa-muromo-mumhino/“To put the mouth into the nose.” — To sulk or pout in annoyance, showing displeasure without saying anything.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiraangerhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuita-sebete-rawira-mumukaka/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuita-sebete-rawira-mumukaka/“To be like a cockroach that has fallen into the milk.” — To go somewhere, usually on an errand, and not come back, or take far too long to return.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiralazinesshttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kukanda-mapfumo-pasi/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kukanda-mapfumo-pasi/“To throw down the spears.” — To admit defeat and give up.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiraconflicthumilityhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kukanda-tsoka/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kukanda-tsoka/“To throw the feet.” — To walk briskly, travelling on foot with purpose.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiratravelhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kumira-negumbo-rimwe/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kumira-negumbo-rimwe/“To stand on one leg.” — To be impatient to leave while being held up or delayed.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikirapatiencehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kuneta-kwomukuyi-sadza-rinodyiwa-navagere/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kuneta-kwomukuyi-sadza-rinodyiwa-navagere/“The tiredness is the grinder's, but the sadza is eaten by those who sat.” — Often one person does the hard work while others enjoy the benefits.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumohard-workhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kungotya-nyanga-dzezizi-nyamba-manhenga/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kungotya-nyanga-dzezizi-nyamba-manhenga/“It is only fear of the owl's horns, when they are just feathers.” — Do not be ruled by appearances. Many dangers are smaller than they look.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumocautionhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuoma-mate-mumukanwa/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuoma-mate-mumukanwa/“For the saliva to dry up in the mouth.” — To be struck speechless by shock or by something very surprising.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikirasurprisefearhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuora-moyo/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuora-moyo/“For the heart to rot.” — To lose heart and become discouraged, or to lose interest in something you once wanted badly.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikirasorrowhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kupa-kuturika/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kupa-kuturika/“To give is to hang something up for later.” — Giving is like putting something away for the future: generosity is an investment that tends to come back to you when you need it.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumoreciprocitykindnesshttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kupeta-muswe/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kupeta-muswe/“To fold the tail.” — To back down or cower out of fear, or to humble oneself.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikirafearhumilityhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kupona-napaburi-retsono/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kupona-napaburi-retsono/“To survive through the eye of a needle.” — To escape danger or trouble by the narrowest of margins.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiralucktroublehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kuramba-nyama-yechidembo-hunge-uine-yetsuro/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kuramba-nyama-yechidembo-hunge-uine-yetsuro/“If you refuse polecat meat, you must have hare meat.” — Turning something down suggests you have something better. Refuse only when you can afford to.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumowisdomhumilityhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kurasa-muswe/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kurasa-muswe/“To throw away the tail.” — To get carried away with excitement or fun and behave carelessly, as children do when no adult is watching.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikirafoolishnessjoyhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kurava-mbudzi-nedzisipo-kurava-nedzava-matowo/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kurava-mbudzi-nedzisipo-kurava-nedzava-matowo/“Counting goats that are not here means counting ones that are already hides.” — Do not count on things you cannot see or check. What is absent may already be lost.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumocautionhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kurayira-kunoda-pwere-mukuru-ndimambo/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kurayira-kunoda-pwere-mukuru-ndimambo/“Advice is for children; an adult is a king.” — Discipline must be given while children are young, because a grown person can no longer be corrected.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumoparentinghttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kure-kwegava-ndokusina-mutsubvu/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kure-kwegava-ndokusina-mutsubvu/“The only place too far for a jackal is where there is no mutsubvu tree.” — Distance and effort mean little when you really want something. People go to great lengths for what interests them.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumoperseverancehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kurera-imbwa-nomukaka-mangwana-inofuma-yokuruma/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kurera-imbwa-nomukaka-mangwana-inofuma-yokuruma/“Raise a dog on milk, and tomorrow it will bite you.” — The people you pamper or help the most may turn against you. Kindness is not always repaid.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumogratitudecautionhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kureva-ndokunei-kutarisa-kurevawo/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kureva-ndokunei-kutarisa-kurevawo/“Why speak? Looking is speaking too.” — A look can say as much as words.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumospeechhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kurova-imbwa-wakaviga-mupinyi/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kurova-imbwa-wakaviga-mupinyi/“To beat a dog while keeping the handle hidden.” — To scold or punish someone without telling them what they did wrong, or to rebuke someone in a veiled way without naming them.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiraspeechtacthttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kurovera-matama-pasi/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kurovera-matama-pasi/“To strike the cheeks on the ground.” — To lie down and go to sleep.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiraresthttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kurovera-moyo-padombo/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kurovera-moyo-padombo/“To strike the heart against a rock.” — To steel yourself and persevere, accepting a hard situation and facing it with courage.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiracouragepatiencehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuruma-nzeve/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuruma-nzeve/“To bite the ear.” — To warn or advise someone quietly and privately, usually about a danger or a mistake they are about to make.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiraspeechwisdomhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kurumwa-nechekuchera/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kurumwa-nechekuchera/“To be bitten by what one was digging for.” — To be harmed by trouble you went looking for; to suffer the consequences of your own meddling.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiratroublefoolishnesshttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kusekera-muhapwa/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kusekera-muhapwa/“To laugh into the armpit.” — To laugh secretly, without letting it show.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikirajoysecrecyhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kushaya-ganda-kumeso/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kushaya-ganda-kumeso/“To have no skin on the face.” — To be shameless, doing disgraceful things without caring what others think.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikirapriderespecthttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kushaya-neremuromo/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kushaya-neremuromo/“To lack even a word in the mouth.” — To be lost for words, with nothing to say.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiraspeechsurprisehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kusona-muromo/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kusona-muromo/“To sew up the mouth.” — To keep quiet and refuse to speak.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiraspeechsecrecyhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kutaura-seune-muti-mukanwa/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kutaura-seune-muti-mukanwa/“To speak as if you have medicine in your mouth.” — To say something that later comes true; to predict an outcome accurately.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiraspeechwisdomhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kutemwa-dzinobuda-ropa/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kutemwa-dzinobuda-ropa/“To be cut and still bleed.” — To still be young and full of life, not yet old.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikirayouthhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuteya-nzeve/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuteya-nzeve/“To set the ears like a trap.” — To listen very attentively.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiraspeechhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kutiza-mukumbo/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kutiza-mukumbo/“To run away to a man's home.” — For a young woman to leave her parents' home and go to live with a man as his wife without the usual marriage negotiations, often because she is pregnant; to elope.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiramarriagefamilyhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kutsenga-mvura/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kutsenga-mvura/“To chew water.” — To be arrogant and excessively proud of oneself.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikirapridehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kutsika-madziro/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kutsika-madziro/“To step on the walls.” — To refuse stubbornly and refuse to be persuaded.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiraconflicthttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kutsika-mwedzi/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kutsika-mwedzi/“To step on the moon.” — A polite way of saying that a woman is pregnant.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikirafamilytacthttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kutura-befu/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kutura-befu/“To put down one's breath.” — To rest and catch your breath after hard work, or to heave a sigh of relief.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiraresthard-workhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuva-mudenga-rechinomwe/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuva-mudenga-rechinomwe/“To be in the seventh heaven.” — To be overjoyed.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikirajoyhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuva-nemeso-meso/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuva-nemeso-meso/“To have "eyes-eyes".” — To have a roving eye: to be lustful or promiscuous, always eyeing men or women.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiralovemarriagehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuva-neruoko/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuva-neruoko/“To have a hand.” — To be light-fingered; to have a habit of stealing.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiradeceithttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuve-zai-regondo/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuve-zai-regondo/“To be an eagle's egg.” — To be an only child.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikirafamilyhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuwana-dzamira-nemhuru/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuwana-dzamira-nemhuru/“To find them already standing with calves.” — To arrive late, after things have already started or are over.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiraluckhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kuwanda-huuya-museve-wakapotera-pamuzukuru/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kuwanda-huuya-museve-wakapotera-pamuzukuru/“Being many is good: the arrow struck the nephew instead.” — There is safety in numbers. In a large family or community, a danger that would have fallen on one person is shared.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumounityfamilyhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kuziva-mbuya-huudzwa/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kuziva-mbuya-huudzwa/“Knowing your mother-in-law comes from being told.” — Knowledge comes from other people. Nobody knows things without being taught.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumowisdomhumilityhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuzvidya-moyo/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuzvidya-moyo/“To eat one's own heart.” — To worry and fret, being deeply troubled, often over something one has done.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikirasorrowtroublehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuzvisikira-moto-muziso/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuzvisikira-moto-muziso/“To kindle a fire in one's own eye.” — To bring trouble upon yourself.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiratroublefoolishnesshttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/mandikurumidze-akabara-mandinonoke/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/mandikurumidze-akabara-mandinonoke/“Hurry-me gave birth to delay-me.” — Rushing a task often makes it take longer in the end.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumopatiencehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/mapudzi-anowira-kusina-hari/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/mapudzi-anowira-kusina-hari/“Squashes fall where there are no pots.” — Good fortune often goes to those who cannot use it, while those who need it miss out.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumofatehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/matakadya-kare-haanyaradzi-mwana/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/matakadya-kare-haanyaradzi-mwana/“What we ate long ago does not quiet a hungry child.” — Past successes do not solve present needs. Each day has to be provided for.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumohard-workwisdomhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/matukirwo-ababa-kunema-mwana/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/matukirwo-ababa-kunema-mwana/“The way to scold a father is to tease his child.” — Criticism of elders or superiors is often made indirectly, through those under them.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumotactspeechhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/mazvokuda-kufa-namaronda-enyora/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/mazvokuda-kufa-namaronda-enyora/“It is one's own choice to die from the wounds of tattoo cuts.” — You cannot blame others for harm you knowingly brought on yourself.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumoconsequenceshttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/mbeva-zhinji-hadzina-mashe/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/mbeva-zhinji-hadzina-mashe/“Many mice have no lining for their nest.” — When too many people share a task, nobody takes responsibility and the work is left undone.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumocooperationhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/mbudzi-kudya-mufenje-hufana-nyina/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/mbudzi-kudya-mufenje-hufana-nyina/“A goat eats the mufenje tree because it takes after its mother.” — Children pick up the habits of their parents. It is the Shona equivalent of "like mother, like child".Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumofamilyparentinghttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/mhembwe-rudzi-inozvara-mwana-ane-kazhumu/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/mhembwe-rudzi-inozvara-mwana-ane-kazhumu/“The duiker is true to its kind: it bears a young one with a tuft on its head.” — Offspring inherit the traits of their parents.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumofamilyparentinghttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/mhosva-inorondwa-hakuna-mhosva-yakaita-honye/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/mhosva-inorondwa-hakuna-mhosva-yakaita-honye/“A wrong is tracked down; no offence ever rotted away.” — Wrongdoing is not wiped out by time. A case can always be reopened and pursued.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumojusticeconsequenceshttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/mombe-inopfuura-haipedzi-uswa/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/mombe-inopfuura-haipedzi-uswa/“A passing ox does not finish the grass.” — Someone who is only passing through takes very little, so being hospitable to travellers will not ruin you.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumohospitalitykindnesshttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/murombo-haarovi-chine-nguo/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/murombo-haarovi-chine-nguo/“A poor man never kills an animal with a hide.” — The poor seldom make big gains. With few resources, poverty tends to keep people poor.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumofatehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/murombo-munhu/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/murombo-munhu/“A poor person is a person.” — The poor deserve the same dignity and respect as anyone else.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumorespectcompassionhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/muromo-haupi-chinopa-maoko/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/muromo-haupi-chinopa-maoko/“The mouth does not give; it is the hands that give.” — Promises cost nothing. What counts is what you actually do.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumospeechhonestyhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/muroyi-munhu-kubayiwa-anochemawo/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/muroyi-munhu-kubayiwa-anochemawo/“A witch is a person: when pricked, she cries too.” — Even those who hurt others feel pain when they are hurt. Nobody is beyond harm.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumohumilityconsequenceshttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/muroyi-royera-kure-ugowana-anokuviga/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/muroyi-royera-kure-ugowana-anokuviga/“Witch, bewitch far away, so that you will have someone to bury you.” — Do not harm the people around you. Keep good relations with your neighbours, because you will need them.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumorelationshipsharmonyhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/murume-akanaka-asiri-wako/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/murume-akanaka-asiri-wako/“A good husband is one who is not yours.” — What belongs to others always looks better than what you have. It warns against envy and straying in marriage.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumomarriagehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/mwana-asingachemi-anofira-mumbereko/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/mwana-asingachemi-anofira-mumbereko/“A child who does not cry dies in the baby sling.” — If you do not speak up about your needs or problems, nobody will know to help you.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumospeechhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/mwana-muduku-kubvuma-rwendo-rwake-ruri-mberi/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/mwana-muduku-kubvuma-rwendo-rwake-ruri-mberi/“When a small child agrees to an errand, it has an errand of its own ahead.” — People readily take on a task when it serves their own interests.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumowisdomhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/mweni-haaendi-nedura/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/mweni-haaendi-nedura/“A guest does not leave with the granary.” — A visitor will not use up everything you have, so be generous to guests. It is said to discourage stinginess towards visitors.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumohospitalitykindnesshttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/natsa-kwaunobva-kwaunoenda-usiku/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/natsa-kwaunobva-kwaunoenda-usiku/“Make peace where you come from; where you are going is dark.” — Leave on good terms, because you do not know what lies ahead and may need to come back.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumorelationshipscautionhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/ndambakuudzwa-akaonekwa-nembonje-pahuma/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/ndambakuudzwa-akaonekwa-nembonje-pahuma/“The one who refused to be told was seen with a scar on the forehead.” — Someone who ignores advice ends up paying for it.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumowisdomconsequenceshttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/nhamo-yomumwe-hairambirwi-sadza/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/nhamo-yomumwe-hairambirwi-sadza/“Another person's trouble is no reason to refuse your food.” — Feel for others in their misfortune, but it should not stop you from looking after yourself.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumocompassionwisdomhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/nhasi-chineni-mangwana-chinewe/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/nhasi-chineni-mangwana-chinewe/“Today it is my turn; tomorrow it is yours.” — Do not mock or take advantage of someone in trouble, because the same misfortune may come to you.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumocompassionhumilityhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/nzombe-huru-yakabva-mukurerwa/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/nzombe-huru-yakabva-mukurerwa/“A big ox came from being nurtured.” — Great things and great people grow from small beginnings with others' care. The successful should not forget those who raised them.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumogratitudeparentinghttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/nzou-hairemerwi-nenyanga-dzayo/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/nzou-hairemerwi-nenyanga-dzayo/“An elephant is not weighed down by its own tusks.” — People do not resent the burdens that come with their own responsibilities. Carry what is yours without complaint.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumoperseverancehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/pachapwa-madziva-miramba-tichanyurura/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/pachapwa-madziva-miramba-tichanyurura/“When the pools dry up, we will scoop out the catfish.” — One person's misfortune can be another's opportunity. Hard times bring gains for some.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumofatehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/pagara-murimi-pagara-mupopoti/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/pagara-murimi-pagara-mupopoti/“Where a farmer lives, a grumbler lives.” — A hard-working person is never fully satisfied and keeps pushing the people around them.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumohard-workhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/panoda-mwoyo-nzira-haisviki/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/panoda-mwoyo-nzira-haisviki/“The path never reaches the place the heart longs for.” — What we long for most always seems far away or slow to come.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumopatiencehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/panodya-ishe-varanda-vanodyawo/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/panodya-ishe-varanda-vanodyawo/“When the chief eats, his subjects eat too.” — When a leader prospers, the people under him share in it.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumoleadershiphttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/panorairwa-mwana-wamambo-muranda-teerera/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/panorairwa-mwana-wamambo-muranda-teerera/“When the king's son is being advised, servant, listen.” — When others are being taught or counselled, take the chance to learn from it yourself.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumowisdomhumilityhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/regai-dzive-shiri-mazai-haana-muto/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/regai-dzive-shiri-mazai-haana-muto/“Let them become birds; eggs do not make much of a stew.” — Be patient and let things mature, because the reward is greater than if you take them too early.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumopatiencehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/rega-kuyera-nyoka-negavi-iyo-iripo/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/rega-kuyera-nyoka-negavi-iyo-iripo/“Do not measure the snake with a strip of bark while the snake itself is here.” — When the real thing or direct evidence is in front of you, use it rather than estimates, imitations or exaggerated reports.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumowisdomhonestyhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/sango-rinopa-waneta/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/sango-rinopa-waneta/“The forest gives to the one who is tired.” — Keep going even when things look bleak. Reward often comes only after long effort.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumoperseverancehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/shiri-ine-muriro-wayo-haiuregi/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/shiri-ine-muriro-wayo-haiuregi/“A bird with its own call does not give it up.” — A person's nature and habits are very hard to change.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumowisdomhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/simba-rehove-riri-mumvura/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/simba-rehove-riri-mumvura/“A fish's strength is in the water.” — People are strongest on familiar ground, in their own element.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumowisdomhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/totenda-maruva-tadya-chakata/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/totenda-maruva-tadya-chakata/“We will praise the blossoms once we have eaten the fruit.” — Do not celebrate early signs or promises. Wait until the result is actually in your hands.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumopatiencecautionhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/tsapata-rukukwe-hazvienzani-nekurara-pasi/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/tsapata-rukukwe-hazvienzani-nekurara-pasi/“A worn-out mat is still a mat; it is better than sleeping on the floor.” — Make the most of what you have. A poor thing is better than nothing.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumocontentmentgratitudehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/tsvaga-zano-iwe-une-rakowo/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/tsvaga-zano-iwe-une-rakowo/“Seek advice when you have a plan of your own.” — Take counsel from others, but have your own ideas so that you can judge the advice you get.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumowisdomhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/uswa-hwenyati-ndohuri-mudumbu-huri-pamuromo-inofa-nahwo/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/uswa-hwenyati-ndohuri-mudumbu-huri-pamuromo-inofa-nahwo/“A buffalo's grass is what is in its belly; it may die with the grass still in its mouth.” — Nothing is yours until it is secured. Do not count on what is not yet in hand.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumocautionhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/varume-ndivamwe-kutsva-kwendebvu-vanodzimurana/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/varume-ndivamwe-kutsva-kwendebvu-vanodzimurana/“Men are one: when a beard catches fire, they put it out for each other.” — People should help one another in times of trouble.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumounitycooperationhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/vataitururira-matohwe-nhasi-ndivo-votiseka-maparapadzwa/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/vataitururira-matohwe-nhasi-ndivo-votiseka-maparapadzwa/“Those we knocked down snot apples for are the ones laughing at our scratches today.” — People you made sacrifices for may forget your kindness and mock you when you fall on hard times.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumogratituderelationshipshttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/zino-irema-rinosekerera-warisingadi/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/zino-irema-rinosekerera-warisingadi/“A tooth is a fool; it smiles at someone it does not like.” — A smile can hide dislike or ill will.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumocautionhonestyhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/ziso-romukadzi-womumwe-rinodonha-uchi/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/ziso-romukadzi-womumwe-rinodonha-uchi/“The eye of another man's wife drips honey.” — Other people's spouses seem more attractive than your own. It warns against lust and envy.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumomarriagehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/zvikoni-zvikoni-mimba-haibvi-negosoro/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/zvikoni-zvikoni-mimba-haibvi-negosoro/“What cannot be done cannot be done; a pregnancy does not come out with a cough.” — Some problems cannot be solved by simple fixes. Accept what cannot be changed.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumowisdomhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/zviuya-hazviwanani/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/zviuya-hazviwanani/“Good things do not marry each other.” — Perfect matches are rare. In marriage, one partner's strengths usually balance the other's weaknesses.Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumomarriagehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chara-chimwe-hachitswanyi-inda/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/chara-chimwe-hachitswanyi-inda/“One thumb cannot crush a louse.” — Some tasks cannot be done alone. Cooperation and working together achieve what one person cannot.Sun, 25 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumounitycooperationhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kandiro-kanoenda-kunobva-kamwe/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kandiro-kanoenda-kunobva-kamwe/“A small plate goes where another came from.” — Kindness is returned. Help those who help you, and good deeds will come back to you.Sun, 25 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumoreciprocitykindnesshttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kugara-hunzwana/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/kugara-hunzwana/“Living together is understanding one another.” — Peaceful coexistence, whether in a family, a marriage or a community, depends on mutual understanding and give-and-take.Sun, 25 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumoharmonyrelationshipshttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kurova-bembera/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kurova-bembera/“To strike a hint.” — To speak indirectly about something, hinting at it instead of saying it outright, often to warn or criticise someone without naming them.Sun, 25 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikiraspeechtacthttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuva-nemoyo-murefu/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/madimikira/kuva-nemoyo-murefu/“To have a long heart.” — To be patient and slow to anger.Sun, 25 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTdimikirapatiencehttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/mwana-washe-muranda-kumwe/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/mwana-washe-muranda-kumwe/“A chief's child is a servant elsewhere.” — Status at home does not travel with you. Away from home, even the most important person must be humble and follow local ways.Sun, 25 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumohumilityrespecthttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/rume-rimwe-harikombi-churu/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/rume-rimwe-harikombi-churu/“One man cannot surround an anthill.” — A single person cannot accomplish a large task alone; it takes many people working together.Sun, 25 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumounitycooperationhttps://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/seka-urema-wafa/https://tsumonemadimikira.ziwere.com/tsumo/seka-urema-wafa/“Laugh at disability only once you have died.” — Do not mock other people's misfortune. While you are alive, the same could happen to you.Sun, 25 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMTtsumohumilitycompassion