ukosefu
oo-koh-SEH-foo
How to say it
Swahiliukosefuoo-koh-SEH-foosoon
Englishlack, shortagesoon
Frenchmanque, pénuriesoon
Meaning
The state of not having something that is needed, or not having enough of it.
Good to know
A noun of the u- class, from kukosa, to lack. It is followed by wa: ukosefu wa ajira, unemployment; ukosefu wa maji, a water shortage.
Examples
- Ukosefu wa mvua umeathiri mavuno.The lack of rain has affected the harvest.
- Vijana wengi wanakabiliwa na ukosefu wa ajira.Many young people face unemployment.
- Shule hii ina ukosefu wa walimu.This school has a shortage of teachers.
Not yet checked by a native speaker.