igihombe

How to say it

Meaning

something that appears strong or sturdy on the outside but is actually weak and easily broken.

Good to know

Often used figuratively of a person or plan that looks solid but collapses under pressure.

Examples

• Iyi ntebe ni igihombe, ntuyicireko.This chair is a fragile thing, don't sit on it hard.
• Ese uwo mugabo ni igihombe nkuko bavuga?Is that man really as fragile as they say?
• Iyi nzu ntabwo ari igihombe, irakomeye.This house is not a fragile thing, it is strong.
• Iyo bazoyisunika, izomenuka kuko ari igihombe.When they push it, it will break because it is fragile.