hitaji
hee-TAH-jee
How to say it
Swahilihitajihee-TAH-jee
Englishneed, requirement
Frenchbesoin, exigence
Meaning
Something that is necessary or wanted, or a condition that must be met.
Good to know
Plural mahitaji, the more common form: mahitaji ya msingi, basic needs; watoto wenye mahitaji maalumu, children with special needs. The verb is kuhitaji, to need.
Examples
- Maji safi ni hitaji la msingi kwa kila mtu.Clean water is a basic need for everyone.
- Familia hii inashindwa kukidhi mahitaji yake.This family cannot meet its needs.
- Cheti cha kuzaliwa ni hitaji la kujiunga na shule.A birth certificate is a requirement for starting school.
Not yet checked by a native speaker.