Firstly, this is a verbal extension
Secondly, it is almost as common as -IS- in the language.
Thirdly, what it does is:
- it gives direction to a verb (when followed by a locative)
- it gives the verb an indirect or secondary object
Here are some examples explaining what happens to a verb’s meaning when you add this extension.
| original verb | extended version |
| phonsa throw a thing | phonsela throw something at someone throw something into something [throw + direction] |
| bhala write something | bhalela write something to someone write something on something write something for something [write + direction / application] |
| thuma send something | thumela send something to someone [send + direction / indirect object] |
| khathala become tired | khathalela be concerned about someone [tiredness + application] |
| enza do a thing make a thing | enzela do something for someone do something for some reason [do + application] |
Generally, the -EL- extension allows the verb to have a direction or place where it happens, or for it to be done for a certain person or reason.
As with the -IS- extension, whatever function a word fulfills before adding the impambosi gets incorporated into the new meaning.
If you still have questions, you know where to ask for help!