lakini

How to say it

Meaning

A conjunction that joins two statements where the second limits or goes against the first.

Good to know

It stands between the two clauses or opens a sentence. Bali is used after a negative (si yeye bali mimi), and walakini is a more formal but.

Examples

• Nilitaka kuja, lakini mvua ilinizuia.I wanted to come, but the rain stopped me.
• Ni mdogo lakini ana nguvu sana.He is small but very strong.
• Lakini hatujui atafika saa ngapi.But we do not know what time he will arrive.

The same word in