kilen ba
To ask how to say something in Marshallese, use the phrase kilen ba.
This phrase is used when you want to request the translation of a specific word or expression into another language.
Did you know?
- The word kilen does not just apply to spoken words, but can be used to describe someone who has mastered a physical skill, such as sailing or fishing.
- The phrase kilen ba is part of a language family that stretches thousands of miles to Madagascar, making it a distant cousin to Malagasy.
- When using kilen ba, the choice of words may change depending on the social rank of your listener, as the language is deeply tied to social hierarchy.
Example conversation
John is learning Marshallese from Sarah.
- JohnSarah, kilen ba 'friend' eñin?Sarah, how do you say 'friend'?
- SarahEñin 'jowi'.It is 'jowi'.
- JohnJowi. Iakwe jowi!Jowi. Hello friend!
- SarahIakwe John!Hello John!
