Swahili
butaa
boo-TAH-ah
How to say it
Swahilibutaaboo-TAH-ahsoon
Englishsurprisesoon
Frenchétonnementsoon
Meaning
a feeling of surprise, amazement, or being taken aback.
Good to know
Butaa often comes when we see something unexpected.
Examples
- Nilishangazwa na butaa wakati alionekana.I was surprised when he appeared.
- Butaa ilitawala uso wake.A look of amazement covered his face.
- Alipatwa na butaa aliposikia habari.He was taken aback when he heard the news.
- Je, ulionyesha butaa?Did you show your surprise?
Not yet checked by a native speaker.