As an official language of Zimbabwe, Shona is a language that originated from the Niger-Congo region. Although it is taught in schools, it is not the general medium of instruction beyond the primary level.

Hello - Mhoro, mhoroi

Good bye - Fambai zvakanaka (by person staying); sarai zvakanaka (by person going)

Thank you - Waita zvako, maita zvenyu

Excuse me - Pamusoro, pamusoroi

Sorry - Ndineurombo

Man - murume

Mother - amai.