tavale
The Fijian word for cousin is tavale.
tavale is a noun used to describe the child of a person's parent's brother or sister.
Meaning: child of a person’s parent’s brother or sister (noun)
Did you know?
- The concept of a 'tavale' is central to the 'vanua' system, which links people to their land and communal identity through extended family ties.
- In Fiji, the word tavale is often used as a friendly, informal term of address for a close friend, much like calling someone 'cousin' or 'mate' in English.
- Unlike English, where 'cousin' is gender-neutral, Fijian kinship terms often vary based on whether the relative is from your mother's or father's side.
Examples in context
- Sa lako mai na noqu caca.My cousin is coming.
Example conversation
Adi is introducing her relative to Semi.
- AdiSemi, qarauna na noqu tavale.Semi, meet my cousin.
- SemiBula, sa vakacava tiko?Hello, how are you doing?
- AdiE tiko mai na nodra tavale era rua.Their cousin is also here.
- SemiSega, au sega ni kila.No, I don't know them.
