vakarokoroko
The Fijian word for respect is vakarokoroko.
vakarokoroko refers to the admiration for a person or an entity based on their perceived merit.
Meaning: admiration for a person or entity because of perceived merit (noun)
When do people say it?
In Fijian culture, specific respectful greetings are used for certain individuals. For example, Bula Tui is a respectful way to address a chief, while Bula Marama is a respectful way to address a lady.
Did you know?
- The word vakarokoroko is inextricably linked to the concept of vanua, which describes the inseparable bond between the physical land and the people living on it.
- Showing vakarokoroko may involve sitting lower than the person you are addressing so that your head is not higher than theirs.
- When presenting a tabua or whale's tooth as a sign of vakarokoroko, it is customary to hold it with both hands.
Example conversation
Semi and Adi are discussing a community leader.
- SemiO koya e vakarau vakamataka na vakarokoroko.He deserves a lot of respect.
- AdiIo, e vinaka na nona cakacaka.Yes, his work is very good.
- SemiNa vakavua ni vakarokoroko e tiko vei koya.There is an increase in respect for him.
- AdiNa cava e cakava e vukei keda kece.What he does helps all of us.
