ni mataka
The Fijian word for tomorrow is ni mataka.
ni mataka is an adverb used to describe something happening on the day after the present day.
Meaning: on the day after the present day (adv)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase ni mataka literally translates to of the morning.
Which one should you use?
While ni mataka is the adverbial form used to describe when an action occurs, the form nimataka is the noun used to refer to the day after the present day itself.
Related words
Did you know?
- The word mataka is derived from the root mata, meaning 'eye' or 'face'. In this context, 'tomorrow' is conceptualized as the 'opening of the eye' or the arrival of light.
- The phrase ni mataka reflects a wider pattern in Austronesian languages where 'tomorrow' is linked to the word for 'morning' or 'dawn' rather than 'next day'.
- The term 'mataka' also carries the connotation of brightness or clarity, reinforcing the idea that the next day is defined by the light of the morning.
Examples in context
- Vinaka vakalevu! Au na lako mai e na mataka.Thank you very much! I will come tomorrow.
Example conversation
Mere and Semi are discussing their plans for the next day.
- MereO Semi, o na lako ki na koro ni mataka?Semi, are you going to the village tomorrow?
- SemiIo, au na lako ni mataka.Yes, I will go tomorrow.
- MereAu na lako vata kei iko.I will go with you.
- SemiSega na cava, me keitou lako vata.No problem, let us go together.
