tʼáá átsʼééh
The Navajo word for 'wait' is tʼáá átsʼééh.
This verb is used to express the concept of delaying an action or waiting until a specific event occurs.
Meaning: delay until some event (verb)
Did you know?
- Navajo uses a complex system of 'classifiers' within its verbs that can indicate whether the person waiting is sitting, standing or lying down.
- Silence is highly valued in Navajo communication, meaning a period of 'waiting' before responding to a question is seen as a sign of respect and thoughtfulness.
- Navajo is a tonal language, so the pitch you use when saying tʼáá átsʼééh can change the meaning of the words entirely.
Example conversation
Justin and Michelle are leaving for the store.
- JustinTʼáá átsʼééh, tʼáá ákʼééh.Wait, just a moment.
- MichelleÁáko, tʼáá ályaaʼąąʼ.Okay, just a little bit.
- JustinShíyáá tʼáá átsʼééh.Wait for me.
- MichelleDoo, tʼáá ályaaʼąąʼ.No, just a little bit.
