vinaka vakalevu ka moce
The Fijian phrase for "thank you and goodbye" is vinaka vakalevu ka moce.
This phrase is a polite expression used to express gratitude and say farewell to someone simultaneously.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of vinaka (thank you), vakalevu (very much/greatly), ka (and) and moce (goodbye).
Did you know?
- While vinaka vakalevu is a common way to say 'thank you very much', in formal village settings, gratitude is often expressed through the presentation of a small gift or a 'sevusevu' ceremony.
- The word moce used for 'goodbye' shares the same linguistic root as the Māori word moe, which means 'sleep'.
- The term vinaka is incredibly versatile and can be used to express 'good', 'fine' or 'well' in many different contexts beyond just saying 'thank you'.
Examples in context
- Vinaka vakalevu ka moce.Thank you very much and goodbye.
- Vinaka vakalevu ka moce vei kemudamu.Thank you very much and goodbye to you all.
- Vinaka vakalevu ka moce, sa maimai.Thank you very much and goodbye, see you later.
Example conversation
Mere is leaving Semi's house after a visit.
- MereVinaka vakalevu ka moce, Semi.Thank you and goodbye, Semi.
- SemiMoce, Mere.Goodbye, Mere.
- MereAu na qai vuli tani.I am going to study now.
- SemiSota tale voli.See you again later.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries moce, vinaka, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Bula and Vinaka, for taking the time to put in writing these phrases. I send emails and texts to someone in San Leandro who is Fijian. Figured I’d use a little.