If you’re just starting to learn Kiswahili, the fastest way to make progress is by learning real phrases people actually use.
In this post, you’ll learn common Kiswahili (Swahili) phrases for beginners, with clear meanings and simple explanations. These are phrases you’ll hear every day in East Africa.
Greetings in Kiswahili
Greetings are very important in Kiswahili-speaking cultures. Even a short greeting goes a long way.
- Habari? – How are you?
- Habari yako? – How are you?
- Habari zenu? – How are you all?
- Hujambo? – How are you? (traditional / polite)
- Sijambo – I’m fine
Common replies:
- Nzuri – Good / Fine
- Salama – Peaceful / All good
- Nzuri sana – Very good
Polite Words You’ll Use Every Day
These words make your Kiswahili sound natural and respectful.
- Asante – Thank you
- Asante sana – Thank you very much
- Tafadhali – Please
- Samahani – Sorry / Excuse me
- Karibu – Welcome / Come in
You’ll hear samahani constantly — to apologize, get attention, or pass through a crowd.
Simple Conversation Starters
Once you can greet someone, these phrases help you keep the conversation going.
- Jina lako ni nani? – What is your name?
- Jina langu ni… – My name is…
- Unatoka wapi? – Where are you from?
- Ninatoka… – I am from…
- Unaishi wapi? – Where do you live?
- Ninaishi Marekani – I live in America
Useful Everyday Phrases
These are extremely practical when traveling or living in East Africa.
- Ndiyo – Yes
- Hapana – No
- Sielewi – I don’t understand
- Naelewa – I understand
- Pole – Sorry (for inconvenience, sympathy, or minor mistakes)
- Hakuna shida – No problem
Pole is a very important word — it’s used to show empathy, not just to apologize.
Asking for Help in Kiswahili
Don’t worry about being perfect. These phrases help when you’re stuck.
- Tafadhali nisaidie – Please help me
- Unaweza kurudia? – Can you repeat?
- Ongea polepole tafadhali – Speak slowly please
- Hii inamaanisha nini? – What does this mean?
Why Learning Phrases Works
Many beginners try to memorize long word lists. That’s hard — and discouraging.
That’s why our Kiswahili lessons focus on clear grammar explanations, using simple examples and real sentences so you understand why the language works the way it does
Learn Kiswahili Step by Step
If you want to keep going:
- Short beginner-friendly lessons
- Common phrases with real meanings
- Clear explanations (no overwhelm)
- Learn at your own pace
👉 Start learning Kiswahili here
Consistency beats perfection. Start small — and keep going.
Final Tip
Don’t worry about your accent or mistakes. People appreciate the effort.
Even a simple “Habari?” can open doors.
Endelea kujifunza! (Keep learning!)