The Swahili term "kali, chungu" matches the English term "acerbic"

other swahili words that include "kali" : english :
ukali acerbity
ukali acrimony
ukali acuity
a moto, kali hot
kali sharp
ukali sharpness
other swahili words that include "chungu" : english :
chungu bitter
chungu cooking pot
chungu, chombo jug
chungu pot