Bien binidu
The English word "welcome" is translated into Chamorro as Bien binidu.
Bien binidu is used as a greeting given upon someone's arrival.
Meaning: greeting given upon someone's arrival (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of bien, meaning "well/good" and binidu, meaning "welcomed/received".
Did you know?
- In traditional Chamorro culture, the concept of welcoming guests is tied to the value of inafa'maña'ga, which emphasizes mutual respect and interdependence within the community.
- Because Chamorro was once suppressed in schools, the active use of Bien binidu today is often a conscious act of cultural reclamation and pride.
- Despite the Spanish words used in Bien binidu, the phrase follows the structural logic of the Austronesian language family, linking it to languages in Malaysia and Indonesia.
Example conversation
Antonio welcomes Angelica to his home.
- AntonioHafa adai, Angelica! Bien binidu.Hello, Angelica! Welcome.
- AngelicaSi Yu'os tasi, Antonio.Thank you, Antonio.
- AntonioPasåi yan hagu.Come in.
- AngelicaSi Yu'os tasi.Thank you.
