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African English
Matatu
Used when discussing public transportation options in Kenya.
Literal Meaning
A minibus used for shared public transportation, typically on set routes.
Actual Meaning
Kenyan term for privately owned minibuses used as public transport
Examples in Context

If you're in a hurry, just hop on a matatu – they run frequently.

The matatu was packed

Catch a matatu to Nairobi

You can easily find a matatu near the train station.

After a long day, I decided to take a matatu home instead of walking.

Helpful Tips
  • 1Sometimes, matatus have specific routes or numbers, so it helps to ask where they're headed.
  • 2Very colorfully decorated buses
  • 3Be prepared for a lively atmosphere inside a matatu; they might play music loudly.
  • 4Matatus are often used for short to medium-distance travel, so it's a common way to commute in urban areas.
Phrase Thesaurus
Similar words and synonyms for this phrase
minibus
shared taxi
public transport
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