turaga qase
The Fijian phrase for "old man" is turaga qase.
The term turaga qase is used to refer to an elderly man. It is a respectful way to acknowledge both the person's age and their standing within the community.
Meaning: elderly man (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of turaga, meaning chief or man of status and qase, meaning old or elderly.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
turaga qase is considered a polite and respectful term. For a highly formal way to address an older man, meaning "My Lord," you may use Noqu Turaga.
Did you know?
- Because turaga is a loanword from Polynesian, its presence in Fijian reflects ancient maritime contact between different island groups rather than local development.
- In Fijian culture, age and status are deeply intertwined, meaning turaga qase recognizes a man's wisdom and authority as much as his years.
- The word turaga can refer to a specific hereditary chief or simply a man of high standing, depending on the social context of the conversation.
Examples in context
- E dua na turaga qase.He is an old man.
- Sa tiko na turaga qase ena vale.The old man is at the house.
Example conversation
Teresia and Isoa see an elderly neighbor walking by.
- TeresiaVacava na turaga qase oya?Who is that old man?
- IsoaO keda na veiweka.He is our relative.
- TeresiaE dau tiko vaka kina?Does he live around here?
- IsoaIo, o keda na turaga qase.Yes, he is our old man.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries turaga, CC BY-SA 4.0.
