🗣️ 10 Everyday Setswana Words You Should Know

Learning a new language can feel overwhelming, but starting with everyday words makes the journey smoother and more fun. Whether you're visiting Botswana, reconnecting with your roots, or just curious about Setswana, here are 10 essential words you’ll hear often—plus how to use them in a sentence!

Lapa – Home / Family

Pronunciation: lah-pah

Example: Ke ya ko lapeng. – I am going home.

Pula – Rain / Money (symbolically)

Pronunciation: poo-lah

Example: Pula e a na. – It’s raining.

Tsela – Road / Way

Pronunciation: tseh-lah

Example: tlhamalala  le tsela. – go straight on the road.

Lentswe – Stone / Rock

Pronunciation: len-tsweh

Example: O ntse mo godimo ga lentswe. – He is sitting  on top of a rock.

Metsi – Water

Pronunciation: meh-tsee

Example: Ke kopa metsi. tswee tswee. – May I have water, please?

Matsogo – Hands

Pronunciation: mah-tsoow-go

Example: Tlhapa  matsogo pele ga dijo. – Wash your hands before eating.

Tlhogo – Head

Pronunciation: tloh-goh

Example: Tlhogo ya me e a botlhoko. – My head is sore.

Thuto – Education / Learning

Pronunciation: too-toh

Example: Thuto ke boswa. – Education is wealth.

Lerato – Love

Pronunciation: leh-rah-toh

Example: Lerato ke selo se se botlhokwa. – Love is an important thing.

Tlhakanelo – Sharing / Cooperation

Pronunciation: tla-kah-neh-loh

Example: Tlhakanelo ke maatla. – Sharing is strength.

📝 Practice Tip:

Try using each word in your own sentence today. You can even say them out loud or write them down in a journal. Language grows when you use it!

📘 Want to Learn More?

Download our 30-Day Learn Setswana Challenge and get a daily boost of phrases, vocabulary, and mini-challenges to keep learning exciting.

➡️ Visit: https://learnsetswanaonline.com