kubakiza
koo-bah-KEE-zah
How to say it
Swahilikubakizakoo-bah-KEE-zah
Frenchlaisser (de reste), garder, conserver
Meaning
To keep part of something back so that it remains, or to be left with a certain number or amount.
Good to know
Causative of kubaki, to remain: kubakiza chakula, to leave some food; timu imebakiza mechi tano, the team has five matches left.
Examples
- Tumebakiza mechi tatu kabla ya ligi kuisha.We have three matches left before the league ends.
- Mama alibakiza chakula kwa ajili ya baba.Mother kept some food back for father.
- Madaktari walijitahidi kubakiza mguu wake.The doctors tried hard to save his leg.
Not yet checked by a native speaker.