Language/Fijian/Vocabulary/Shopping-Vocabulary
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Introduction[edit | edit source]
In this lesson, we will learn the Fijian phrases and vocabulary for shopping. Shopping is an essential aspect of daily life, and it's important to be able to communicate effectively while buying goods or services. By mastering the shopping vocabulary, you will be able to ask for prices, bargain, and discuss sizes, colors, and quantities. This knowledge will empower you to navigate the marketplaces in Fiji confidently.
The lesson will begin with an overview of the basic shopping phrases and vocabulary. We will cover how to ask for the price of an item, how to bargain, and how to discuss sizes, colors, and quantities. We will provide numerous examples to illustrate each point, ensuring a clear and thorough understanding of the topic. Additionally, we will explore any regional variations in the usage or understanding of shopping vocabulary in Fiji, along with interesting cultural facts related to shopping practices.
To reinforce your learning, we have included a series of exercises and practice scenarios where you can apply what you have learned. These exercises will allow you to practice asking for prices, bargaining, and describing items in various contexts. Solutions and explanations will be provided to help you understand the correct usage of the phrases and vocabulary.
Let's dive into the vibrant world of Fijian shopping vocabulary!
Basic Shopping Phrases[edit | edit source]
Before we delve into the specific vocabulary, let's start with some basic shopping phrases that will come in handy during your shopping adventures in Fiji. These phrases will help you initiate conversations, ask for assistance, and express your preferences. Familiarize yourself with these phrases, and practice their pronunciation to ensure clear communication.
Greeting the Shopkeeper[edit | edit source]
When entering a shop or market stall, it's polite to greet the shopkeeper. Use the following phrases to greet them:
- Bula! - Hello! (general greeting)
- Ni sa bula! - Hello! (more formal greeting)
- Sa bula vinaka! - Good health! (a common Fijian greeting)
- Ni sa yadra! - Good morning! (used until around 10 am)
- Ni sa dina! - Good afternoon! (used from around 10 am until sunset)
- Ni sa yasawa! - Good evening! (used after sunset)
Asking for Assistance[edit | edit source]
If you need assistance while shopping, these phrases will help you get the attention of the shopkeeper:
- O cei na nomu vunau? - Can I help you? (lit. Who is your servant?)
- O cei na nomu vunau mai? - Can I help you here? (lit. Who is your servant here?)
- Au dua na nomu vunau? - May I help you? (lit. I am one of your servants.)
Expressing Preferences[edit | edit source]
When looking for a specific item or expressing your preferences, these phrases will be useful:
- Au sa qaravi e dua na ka. - I am looking for an item.
- Au sa qaravi e dua na kena. - I am looking for one of these. (referring to a specific item)
- Au sa qaravi e dua na kena oqo. - I am looking for one of these. (referring to something near you)
Now that you are familiar with the basic shopping phrases, let's move on to the specific vocabulary for shopping in Fijian.
Shopping Vocabulary[edit | edit source]
Basic Vocabulary[edit | edit source]
Here are some essential words and phrases that you will frequently encounter while shopping in Fiji:
| Fijian | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| vakaraitaka | vah-kah-rye-tah-kah | to show |
| volitaka | voh-lee-tah-kah | to sell |
| voli | voh-lee | purchase |
| dua | doo-ah | one |
| rua | roo-ah | two |
| tolu | toh-loo | three |
| va | vah | four |
| lima | lee-mah | five |
| ono | on-oh | six |
| vitu | vee-too | seven |
| walu | wah-loo | eight |
| ciwa | thee-wah | nine |
| tini | teen-ee | ten |
Asking for the Price[edit | edit source]
When you find an item you're interested in, it's essential to know how to ask for the price. Here are some phrases that will help you inquire about the cost of an item:
- E dua na ka oqo? - How much is this item?
- O cei na kena? - What is the price?
- E lewe dua na tini? - How much does it cost?
- O cei na tini? - What is the cost?
Bargaining[edit | edit source]
Bargaining is a common practice in Fiji, especially in marketplaces and small shops. Here are some phrases to help you negotiate the price:
- Au sega ni kila na tini oqo. - I don't know the price of this.
- E vakarau tu ga na tini oqo? - Is this the final price?
- Sa vakayacora tiko na tini? - Can you lower the price?
- Sa rawa ni vakatokai? - Can you give a discount?
- Au sa dau dauvakararavi. - I am just browsing.
Describing Sizes, Colors, and Quantities[edit | edit source]
When discussing sizes, colors, and quantities, these phrases will be useful:
- Lailai - small
- Levu - big
- Vica na kena? - How many are there?
- Vica na kena e levu? - How big is it?
- Vica na kena e lailai? - How small is it?
- Vaqaqaraqataki - colorful
- Dromu - long
- Kila - short
Feel free to practice these phrases and vocabulary with a friend or in front of a mirror to improve your pronunciation and fluency.
Cultural Insights[edit | edit source]
Shopping in Fiji is a unique experience that reflects the vibrant culture and traditions of the islands. The markets, known as "veiwekani," are bustling with activity, filled with vendors selling fresh produce, handicrafts, clothes, and various other items. The Fijian people take pride in their local products and are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness towards visitors.
Bargaining is a common practice in Fijian markets, and it is expected that you negotiate the price before making a purchase. The initial price quoted by the vendor is often higher than the actual selling price, as it allows room for negotiation. Don't be afraid to haggle and engage in friendly banter with the vendors. It is all part of the shopping experience.
When shopping for handicrafts or traditional Fijian items, it's important to know that these products often have cultural significance. Take the time to learn about the story behind the item and appreciate its craftsmanship. By showing genuine interest, you not only support local artisans but also create meaningful connections with the Fijian culture.
Fiji is also known for its vibrant and colorful fabrics, such as the famous "masi" cloth. Masi is made from the bark of the mulberry tree and decorated with intricate patterns. It is used to make clothing, wall hangings, and various other items. When shopping for masi or other fabrics, take a moment to admire the craftsmanship and choose something that resonates with you.
Exercises[edit | edit source]
Now it's time to put your knowledge into practice! Complete the following exercises to reinforce what you have learned.
Exercise 1: Asking for the Price
Match the phrases on the left with their corresponding meanings on the right:
1. E dua na ka oqo? a. How much does it cost? 2. O cei na kena? b. What is the price? 3. E lewe dua na tini? c. How much is this item? 4. O cei na tini? d. What is the cost?
Solution: 1. c 2. b 3. a 4. d
Exercise 2: Bargaining
Read the following dialogue and answer the questions:
Shopkeeper: Sa rawa ni vakatokai? Customer: Au sa vakarau tu ga na tini oqo. E vakayacora tiko na tini?
Questions: 1. What is the shopkeeper asking? 2. What does the customer say in response?
Solution: 1. Can you give a discount? 2. I am just browsing. Can you lower the price?
Exercise 3: Describing Sizes, Colors, and Quantities
Fill in the blanks with the appropriate words:
1. Au sa vinakata na ka __________. (small) 2. Na kena e __________? (big) 3. Vica na kena e __________? (long) 4. Na kena e __________? (short) 5. Au sa vinakata na ka __________. (colorful)
Solution: 1. lailai 2. levu 3. dromu 4. kila 5. vaqaqaraqataki
Great job! You've completed the exercises.
Conclusion[edit | edit source]
Congratulations! You have learned the essential Fijian phrases and vocabulary for shopping. You can now confidently ask for the price, bargain, and discuss sizes, colors, and quantities while shopping in Fiji. Remember to practice these phrases regularly to improve your fluency and build confidence in your communication skills.
In the next lesson, we will explore the Fijian words for money and currency, allowing you to navigate financial transactions with ease. Vinaka vakalevu! (Thank you very much!)
Sources[edit | edit source]
- Fijian learning games: online kids language exercises
- Fijian Vocabulary - Count to 10
- Speaking Fijian: Common Words and Phrases
Other Lessons[edit | edit source]
- Common Professions
- Feelings and Emotions
- Health
- Food
- Seasons and Months
- Money and Currency
- Count to 10
- Basic Greetings
- Colors
- Relationships
| ◀️ Making Polite Requests — Previous Lesson | Next Lesson — Money and Currency ▶️ |