naan ko nanañ
The phrase "bad words" is translated into Marshallese as naan ko nanañ.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of naan (word or speech), ko (a plural marker) and nanañ (bad or evil).
Did you know?
- The term nanañ is often used to describe food that has gone bad or smells foul. Because of this, calling someone's words nanañ can carry a sensory connotation of something being stinky or putrid.
- In many Marshallese social settings, even a small amount of naan ko nanañ can be seen as a significant breach of respect towards elders, a social taboo much stricter than in many Western cultures.
- While English speakers use 'bad words' to refer to swearing, in some Marshallese contexts, the phrase can imply words that are untruthful or deceptive, not just vulgar.
Example conversation
Sarah is reminding John to be polite in front of children.
- SarahJohn, kwajojan naan ko nanañ.John, please don't use bad words.
- JohnIro mwelele, Sarah.I am sorry, Sarah.
- SarahEjjab naan ko nanañ.No bad words.
- JohnIakwe, iro kkwōj.Okay, I understand.
