Learn the Swahili Words "Hasa" and "Hasara" Explained.
Learn how to use "hasa" and "hasara" in everyday Swahili conversations with these helpful examples.
Swahili Vocabulary Spotlight: Understanding "Hasa" and "Hasara"
March 4, 2025
Today, we continue our exploration of Swahili words, focusing on two terms that are widely used in everyday conversations: "hasa" and "hasara."
Hasa
The Swahili word "hasa" is used to emphasize a particular aspect of something. It can be translated to "especially," "particularly," or "specifically" in English. This term highlights a specific element or feature in a context.
Example in a sentence:
Napenda matunda, hasa maembe.
(Translation: I like fruits, especially mangoes.)
"Hasa" is a versatile word that appears frequently in both formal and informal speech. It is an essential part of Swahili communication.
Hasara
On the other hand, "hasara" in Swahili refers to "loss," "damage," or "harm" in English. It is often used to describe negative outcomes, such as financial loss or wasted effort.
The word "hasara" has its origins in Arabic, derived from the Arabic term "خسارة" (khasārah), which similarly denotes loss or damage. Swahili, influenced by Arabic due to historical trade and cultural interactions, has many such loanwords.
How to Use “Hasara” in a Sentence:
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Financial Loss:
Nilipata hasara kubwa baada ya biashara yangu kuanguka.
(Translation: I suffered a huge loss after my business collapsed.) -
Wasted Effort:
Kusoma bila kufanya mtihani ni hasara kubwa.
(Translation: Studying without taking the exam is a big waste.) -
General Harm or Damage:
Moto huo ulisababisha hasara kubwa kwa wakazi wa mtaa huo.
(Translation: The fire caused a huge loss to the residents of that neighborhood.)
"Hasara" can also be used figuratively to express regret or missed opportunities, making it a poignant term in discussions about setbacks and negative experiences.
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