Sawubona! Learn isiZulu
isiZulu is a Nguni language known for its rich noun-class system, click consonants borrowed from Khoisan, and a proverb tradition that carries the philosophy of ubuntu.
From the rolling hills of the Midlands to the Durban beachfront, isiZulu carries izibongo (praise poetry), maskandi music, and the etiquette of hlonipha (respect).
~12 million first-language speakers
Course levels
Beginner A1
12 automated lessons · 6 quizzes · 3 games · 1 assignment
Elementary A2
12 automated lessons · 6 quizzes · 3 games · 1 assignment
Intermediate B1
12 automated lessons · 6 quizzes · 3 games · 1 assignment
Upper-Intermediate B2
12 automated lessons · 6 quizzes · 3 games · 1 assignment
Advanced C1
12 automated lessons · 6 quizzes · 3 games · 1 assignment
Starter phrases with pronunciation
Sawubona
Hello (to one person)
sah-woo-BOH-nah
Unjani?
How are you?
oon-JAH-nee
Ngiyaphila, ngiyabonga
I am well, thank you
ngee-yah-PEE-lah ngee-yah-BOH-ngah
Ngubani igama lakho?
What is your name?
ngoo-BAH-nee ee-GAH-mah LAH-kho
Ngicela usizo
I would like some help
ngee-CHEH-lah oo-SEE-zoh
Hamba kahle
Go well (goodbye)
HAM-bah GAH-shleh
Included learning materials
Learner workbook
Printable PDF and Word workbook per level, styled like this site.
Children's book
Illustrated story set in the provinces where the language lives.
Phrase dictionary
Thematic dictionary with pronunciation for every entry.
Audio pack
Downloadable pronunciation drills for offline practice.
Enrolled students download every isiZulu workbook, children's book and dictionary from their dashboard.