lijamu

How to say it

Meaning

The metal bar put in a horse's mouth, with the straps that hold it, used to guide and stop the animal. Figuratively, whatever holds back a person or a passion.

Good to know

N class, same form in the plural. Kutia lijamu is to bridle, and figuratively to rein in: kutia lijamu ulimi, to hold one's tongue.

Examples

• Mpanda farasi alivuta lijamu ili farasi asimame.The rider pulled the bridle so that the horse would stop.
• Serikali inataka kutia lijamu matumizi mabaya ya fedha.The government wants to rein in the misuse of money.
• Tia lijamu ulimi wako unapokasirika.Hold your tongue when you are angry.

The same word in