vinaka
/βi.na.ka/
vinaka is the Fijian way to say thanks.
vinaka is used to express appreciation or gratitude. Beyond expressing thanks, the word is polysemous and can also mean "good", "fine" or "well" depending on the context in which it is used.
Meaning: used to express appreciation or gratitude (intj)
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 3 syllables and is pronounced /βi.na.ka/.
Did you know?
- The concept of vinaka extends beyond simple thanks to include the broader idea of 'virtue' or 'goodness' in a person's character.
- While vinaka means thanks, adding the word vakalevu creates vinaka vakalevu, which means 'thank you very much'. The term vakalevu literally translates to 'in a big way'.
- In Fiji, saying vinaka is often accompanied by a slight nod of the head or a gentle smile to signal sincerity and respect.
Examples in context
- Vinaka!Thanks!
- Vinaka vaka levu.Thank you very much.
- Vinaka na nomu veivuke.Thanks for your help.
Example conversation
Mere gives Isoa a piece of fruit.
- MereOqo na iqunaquna, Isoa.Here is the fruit, Isoa.
- IsoaVinaka, Mere.Thanks, Mere.
- MereSega na ca.You're welcome.
- IsoaVinaka vakalevu.Thank you very much.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry vinaka, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
