sutiymi
The phrase "my name is" in Quechua is sutiymi.
This phrase is used to identify oneself by stating one's name.
Meaning: a way to identify oneself (phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
The word sutiymi is a combination of suti, meaning "name" and the suffix -ymi, which indicates that the name is the subject and adds emphasis to the statement.
Which one should you use?
While sutiymi is the standard way to state your name, you may also see sutiyqa. Using the form sutiyqa employs a topic marker instead of the assertive suffix -ymi, which is common when introducing yourself in a conversation to set your name as the topic of discussion.
How does it change in a sentence?
The assertive suffix -ymi is used in the standard form sutiymi to emphasize the name as the subject, whereas the form sutiyqa uses a topic marker to introduce the name as the subject of the conversation.
Did you know?
- In many Quechua communities, people traditionally did not use surnames like those in 'English'. Introducing oneself with just a suti was the norm until Spanish colonial administration imposed family names.
- The suffix -ymi is a validator that signals the speaker has first-hand knowledge of the fact. By saying sutiymi, the speaker is linguistically guaranteeing that the name is true.
- While sutiymi is used for formal identification, in some Andean regions, it is common to introduce oneself by stating their community or village first rather than their personal 'name'.
Examples in context
- Sutiymi Juan.My name is Juan.
- Sutiymi k'ana.My name is K'ana.
Example conversation
Two people are meeting for the first time at a local market.
- WaylluRimaykullayki, sutiymi Wayllu.Hello, my name is Wayllu.
- RosaAllillanmi, sutiymi Rosa.Nice to meet you, my name is Rosa.
- WaylluImaynam kachkanki, Rosa?How are you, Rosa?
- RosaAllillanmi, Wayllu.I am well, Wayllu.
