vinaka
/βi.na.ka/
The English phrase "thank you" is vinaka in Fijian.
vinaka is an expression used to show gratitude.
Meaning: an expression of gratitude (intj)
How does it change in a sentence?
Adding the adverb vakalevu after vinaka intensifies the expression to mean "thank you very much".
How do you pronounce it?
/βi.na.ka/
Did you know?
- The word vinaka is actually an adjective that translates to 'good', 'fine' or 'pleasant'. When you say it to mean 'thank you', you are literally telling someone that they are 'good'.
- In a formal 'kava' ceremony, the act of giving thanks is often integrated into the ritualized sequence of drinking the root powder brew.
- The word vinaka can be used as a polite way to end a phone call or a conversation, similar to saying 'goodbye' or 'take care'.
Examples in context
- Vinaka vakalevu!Thank you very much!This example shows how to use vinaka to say "thank you very much!"
- Vinaka na kena volavola.Thank you for the letter.
- Vinaka na nomu veivuke.Thank you for your help.
Example conversation
Mere gives Jone a piece of fruit.
- MereO sa tiko vata, Jone.Here it is, Jone.
- JoneVinaka, Mere.Thank you, Mere.
- MereSega na cava.No problem.
- JoneSa vinaka vakalevu.Thank you very much.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “thank you” translations and entries vinaka, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Wiktionary CC BY-SA 4.0.
