lazima

How to say it

Meaning

necessary, obligatory, or a must; also used as 'it is necessary that...'.

Good to know

Very common in everyday speech: lazima + verb means 'must', e.g. lazima uende (you must go).

Examples

• Lazima ufike shuleni mapema.You must arrive at school early.
• Si lazima ununue gari jipya.It is not necessary for you to buy a new car.
• Je, ni lazima nilipe sasa hivi?Do I have to pay right now?
• Walisema ni lazima tufanye kazi hii pamoja.They said it is essential that we do this work together.

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