What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mbira
Example
The musician played the mbira during the ceremony. [mbira: noun]
Example
She learned how to play the mbira from her grandfather. [mbira: noun]
kalimba
Example
He played a beautiful melody on the kalimba. [kalimba: noun]
Example
The kalimba has a unique sound that is different from other instruments. [kalimba: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Kalimba is more commonly used than mbira in Western music and culture. Kalimba has gained popularity in recent years and is now used in various genres of music, while mbira is primarily used in African traditional music and cultural ceremonies.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between mbira and kalimba?
Neither mbira nor kalimba is considered more formal than the other. Both can be used in formal and informal contexts depending on the genre of music and the occasion.
