nakai
The word for "no" in Niuean is nakai.
nakai is used as a particle to express negation or to show disagreement.
Meaning: used to show disagreement or negation (particle)
Did you know?
- While English speakers use 'no' to answer both questions and commands, Niuean speakers must carefully choose between nakai and other particles depending on whether they are rejecting a fact or refusing an action.
- In Niuean, saying 'no' to a person is often less about the word itself and more about the social 'face' you maintain. Using a blunt nakai can sometimes be seen as too aggressive in polite conversation.
- Because Niuean is closely related to Tongan and Cook Islands Maori, the 'no' in Niuean sounds similar to negation particles in these neighboring Polynesian languages.
Examples in context
- Nakai e fakaai.No, that is not how you do it.
- Nakai e kiki.No, it is not expensive.
- Nakai e hiva.No, he is not singing.
Example conversation
Mele asks Peni if he wants more food.
- MeleE fakaatu koe mo e kai?Do you want more food?
- PeniNakai, e lava.No, it's enough.
- MeleKoe e hano atu?Are you going now?
- PeniIo, e hano au.Yes, I am going.
