shiyáázh
The English phrase "my child" is translated into Navajo as shiyáázh.
shiyáázh is a phrase used by a parent to refer specifically to their own son or daughter.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is composed of the prefix shi- meaning "my" and yáázh meaning "child".
Did you know?
- Navajo is a tonal language, meaning the pitch used when saying shiyáázh can change the meaning of the word entirely.
- Navajo kinship terms are highly specific and change depending on whether the child is related through the father's or mother's side of the family.
- The word yáázh does not just mean 'child' but is also used to describe any animal that is young or small.
Examples in context
- Shiyáázh deeshłéé'.Come here, my child.
Example conversation
Kyle and Sarah are talking about their children at a park.
- KyleShiyáázh áání.My child is speaking.
- SarahT'áá áání.He is just talking.
- KyleShiyáázh t'éé' áání.My child is talking right now.
- SarahÁání.He is speaking.
