i na'an-hu si
i na'an-hu si is the Chamorro way to say "my name is".
This phrase is used to identify yourself to others.
Meaning: a way to identify oneself (phrase)
Did you know?
- The word si in this phrase has close linguistic relatives in Indonesian and Malay, showing the ancient connection between the islands of the Pacific and Southeast Asia.
- When using i na'an-hu si, it is common to accompany the introduction with a warm smile and a nod, as Chamorro social etiquette heavily emphasizes humility and friendliness.
- The possessive suffix -hu in na'an-hu is a distinct marker for 'my'. Unlike English, which uses a separate word 'my' before the noun, Chamorro attaches the ownership to the end of the word.
Examples in context
- I na'an-hu si Maria.My name is Maria.
- I na'an-hu si Jose.My name is Jose.
- I na'an-hu si Elena.My name is Elena.
Example conversation
Antonio and Angelica meet for the first time at a party.
- AntonioHafa adai! I na'an-hu si Antonio.Hello! My name is Antonio.
- AngelicaHafa adai, Antonio. I na'an-hu si Angelica.Hello, Antonio. My name is Angelica.
- AntonioSi Angelica, yan gumamertiko!Angelica, nice to meet you!
- AngelicaYan gumamertiko, Antonio.Nice to meet you too, Antonio.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries si, CC BY-SA 4.0.
