Somali Prepositions and Postpositions
Learn Somali prepositions (ku, ka, u, la) and how they combine with verbs to express location, direction, and more.
Somali uses a set of four core prepositions that attach to verbs and carry essential meaning about location, direction, and relationship.
The Four Prepositions
| Preposition | Meaning | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| ku | in, at, on, with (instrument) | Location or instrument |
| ka | from, out of, about | Source or origin |
| u | to, for | Direction or purpose |
| la | with (accompaniment) | Company |
Usage Examples
Ku (in/at/on/with)
Waxaan ku noolahay Muqdisho. — I live in Mogadishu. Mindida ku jar. — Cut it with the knife.
Ka (from/about/out of)
Soomaaliya ayaan ka imid. — I came from Somalia. Waxaan ka hadlayaa arrinta. — I am talking about the matter.
U (to/for)
U sheeg macalinka. — Tell it to the teacher. Waxaan u socdaa suuqa. — I am going to the market.
La (with)
Aniga ila soo soco. — Come with me. Waxaan la hadlayaa saaxiibkay. — I am talking with my friend.
Combining Prepositions
Prepositions can combine for more complex meanings:
ka + soo = from (direction toward speaker) ku + sii = at/on (direction away) u + soo = to/toward (direction toward speaker)