Swahili
mkereza
mke-RE-za
How to say it
Swahilimkerezamke-RE-zasoon
Englishwoodturner, opportunistsoon
Frenchtourneur, opportunistesoon
Meaning
a woodturner, one who works a lathe; figuratively, a political opportunist or timeserver.
Good to know
the literal craft sense (lathe-worker) contrasts with the figurative political sense (opportunist).
Examples
- Mkereza alitengeneza miguu ya kiti kwa ustadi.The woodturner skillfully made the chair legs.
- Je, mkereza huyo amefanya kazi hii kwa muda gani?How long has that turner done this work?
- Wanasiasa wengi humwona kama mkereza asiyeaminika.Many politicians see him as an untrustworthy opportunist.
Not yet checked by a native speaker.