Language/Fijian/Grammar/Give-your-Opinion
Hi Fijian learners! 😊
In this lesson, we will learn how to give our opinion in Fijian. We will also learn about some cultural practices related to expressing opinions in Fiji.
Take a moment to explore these relevant pages as you conclude this lesson: Questions & How to Use Have.
Giving opinions in Fijian[edit | edit source]
Giving opinions in Fijian is a great way to engage with Fijians and connect with them. Here are some ways to express your opinion in Fijian.
Use the verb "nanumi"[edit | edit source]
The most common way to give your opinion in Fijian is by using the verb "nanumi", which means "to think". Follow the verb with the particle "ni" and the subject of the sentence, then give your opinion using the verb or adjective. Here are some examples:
| Fijian | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| Au nanumi ni sa katakata na waiu. | Ow na-NOO-mee-nee- sa kah-tah-kata nah why-yoo. | I think your shirt is beautiful. |
| Au nanumi ni sa sega veiivoli kina. | Ow na-NOO-mee-nee- sa seh-ngah veh-ee-voh-lee kee-nah. | I don't think he is trustworthy. |
Use the verb "yalo"[edit | edit source]
Another way to give your opinion is by using the verb "yalo", which means "to feel". Follow the verb with the subject of the sentence, then give your opinion using the verb or adjective. Here are some examples:
| Fijian | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| Au yalo na mate ni sa tamata dina. | Ow YAH-loh nah MAH-teh-nee- sa tah-mah-tah dee-nah. | I feel that he is an honest person. |
| Au yalo tiko na kena levu cakegaga. | Ow YAH-loh tee-koh nah keh-nah LAY-voo chah-ngay-ngah. | I think it's very big. |
Use adjectives[edit | edit source]
You can also give your opinion in Fijian by using an adjective. Follow the adjective with the particle "na" and the subject of the sentence. Here are some examples:
| Fijian | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| Sa dina na tamata yaqona. | Sa dee-nah nah tah-mah-tah yah-NGOH-nah. | The kava drinker is honest. |
| Sa rosi na kena levu. | Sa roh-see nah keh-nah LAY-voo. | It is huge. |
Cultural practices[edit | edit source]
Giving opinions is an essential part of Fijian culture. In Fiji, people often express their opinions in a direct yet respectful manner. In some cases, people may even use proverbs or analogies to illustrate their point.
It is also important to listen to the opinions of others when engaging in discussions or debates. Fijians value the opinions of others and often seek to understand differing viewpoints.
Dialogue[edit | edit source]
Here is an example dialogue so you can see how to use opinions in a conversation:
- Person 1: Sa oti na matewai? (How was the water?)
- Person 2: Sa sega ni katakata sara. (It wasn't very warm.)
- Person 1: Sa mada na wai? (Is the water cold?)
- Person 2: Sa nanumi au ni sa lailai na wai. (I think the water is a little cold.)
- Person 1: Au nanumi ni sa dina na veika oqo. (I think this is true.)
- Person 2: Sa yalo au ni sa ca na qase. (I feel that the elders are wrong.)
Practice[edit | edit source]
To practice giving your opinion, try to have conversations with native Fijian speakers. You can also check for grammar examples and exercises in our Grammar section. To find language partners, use the Find native speakers and ask them any questions.
➡ If you have any questions, please ask them in the comments section below.
➡ Feel free to edit this wiki page if you think it can be improved. 😎
Other Lessons[edit | edit source]
Sources[edit | edit source]