kali

How to say it

Meaning

Describes something with a strong, harsh or sharp quality: a blade that cuts well, a fierce animal, a strict person, severe weather or a hot taste.

Good to know

An adjective that takes the agreement of its noun: kisu kikali, a sharp knife; mbwa mkali, a fierce dog; adhabu kali, a severe punishment. Pilipili kali is hot pepper.

Examples

• Kisu hiki ni kikali sana.This knife is very sharp.
• Mwalimu wetu ni mkali lakini ni mwema.Our teacher is strict but kind.
• Serikali imetangaza hatua kali dhidi ya wezi.The government has announced tough measures against thieves.

The same word in

Forms

kikali, mkali (m class form of kali, fierce)