The Zulu language is called Zulu or isizulu. Zulu has about 19 000 words and one of the most complex grammars in the world. Many Dutch and English words have been incorporated into the language.

HOW TO PRONOUNCE ZULU WORDS:

VOWELS

CONSONANTS

All these consonants are followed by a soft sounding
h as in hand:

These letters are pronounced the same way they
are in English:

Top of Page

CLICK SOUNDS

There are many different click sounds in Zulu. You will need to practice these basic clicks:

c : pronounced as k, but with the tip of the tongue pressed against the upper front teeth.

gc : pronounced as g (as in gate) but with the tip of the tongue pressed against the top front teeth

nc : pronounced as n but with the tip of the tongue pressed against the top front teeth.

gq : pronounced as g (as in gate) but with the tongue pressed against the top of the mouth.

nq : pronounced as n but with the tongue pressed just behind the top teeth.

q : pronounced as q but followed by an h (as in hat).

x : pronounced as k, but with the tongue pressed against the side teeth.

nx : pronounced through the nose as n, but with the tongue pressed against the side teeth.

Top of Page

EXAMPLES

(for more words see list of animal names in animal cures)

Top of Page