vinaka vakalevu
vinaka vakalevu is the Fijian way to say well done.
This phrase is an exclamation used to offer strong praise when someone has performed a task successfully.
Meaning: exclamation of praise (intj)
Which one should you use?
While vinaka vakalevu is a strong exclamation of praise for a job well done, vinaka is a milder version used for simple thanks or to say something is good.
Did you know?
- In Fiji, the phrase vinaka vakalevu is used not just for praise but as the standard way to say 'thank you very much'.
- In some Fijian contexts, if you say vinaka to a person of high chiefly status, it may feel more like an assessment of their behavior than a standard 'thank you'.
- While vinaka means 'good' or 'thanks', the word vakalevu literally means 'in a big way' or 'greatly'.
Examples in context
- Vinaka vakalevu na nomuni cakacaka.Well done on your work.
Example conversation
Sereana is praising Semi for finishing a task.
- SereanaVinaka vakalevu, Semi!Well done, Semi!
- SemiVinaka, Sereana.Thank you, Sereana.
- SereanaO sa cakacaka vakavinaka.You have worked very well.
- SemiAu sa marau.I am happy.
