nitisiyīhkāson
The English phrase "my name is" is translated into Cree as nitisiyīhkāson.
nitisiyīhkāson is used by a speaker to identify themselves by name.
Meaning: a way to identify oneself (phrase)
How does it change in a sentence?
Unlike the English phrase which uses a string of separate words, nitisiyīhkāson is a single conjugated verb form.
Did you know?
- In many Cree communities, it is traditional to introduce yourself by stating your clan or family lineage before using nitisiyīhkāson to give your personal name.
- When introducing themselves, a Cree speaker might use a different verb form if they are stating a name that someone else gave them versus a name they chose.
- In many Cree-speaking communities, introducing yourself with a name is often preceded by a gesture of respect toward the listener.
Example conversation
Two people meeting for the first time at a community event.
- ATânisi! Nitisiyīhkāson A.Tânisi! Nitisiyīhkāson A.Hello! My name is A.
- BTânisi, A. Nitisiyīhkāson B.Tânisi, A. Nitisiyīhkāson B.Hello, A. My name is B.
- AKiwāhtān, B.Kiwāhtān, B.Nice to meet you, B.
- BKiwāhtān kīsa.Kiwāhtān kīsa.Nice to meet you too.
