* Constant Evolution: Languages are constantly evolving. New words are created, old words fall out of use, and meanings shift.
* Regional Variations: Swahili has many regional dialects, each with its own nuances and variations in vocabulary.
* Technical Jargon: Like any language, Swahili develops specialized vocabulary for specific fields (e.g., science, technology, law).
Instead of a precise count, it's more helpful to understand these facts:
* Vast Vocabulary: Swahili has a rich and extensive vocabulary, more than sufficient for everyday communication, literature, and academic discourse.
* Borrowing & Adaptation: Swahili has readily borrowed and adapted words from Arabic, English, Portuguese, and other languages, enriching its lexicon.
* Flexibility: The structure of Swahili allows for the creation of new words through prefixes, suffixes, and compound words.
So, while we can't give you a specific number, rest assured that Swahili has a vast and dynamic vocabulary that is continually expanding.