aaet
/ɰɰæjetˠ/
The word for 'yes' in Marshallese is aaet. Wiktionary also lists in̄n̄ā and iiūn̄.
Meaning: word used to indicate agreement or acceptance (particle)
Ways to say it
| Marshallese | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| aaet | /ɰɰæjetˠ/ | |
| in̄n̄ā | Ratak, dialectal | |
| iiūn̄ | Ratak, dialectal |
In Marshallese, this particle is used to indicate agreement or acceptance.
Is it said differently in some regions?
The Ratak dialect uses the forms in̄n̄ā and iiūn̄ to mean 'yes'.
How do you pronounce it?
/ɰɰæjetˠ/
Did you know?
- While English uses 'yes' for almost all affirmations, Marshallese often prefers to answer a question by repeating the verb used in the query instead of using aaet.
- In many Marshallese contexts, saying 'yes' is actually achieved through a subtle nod of the head rather than a vocalized particle.
- The distinction between using aaet and the Ratak forms in̄n̄ā or iiūn̄ reflects the historical and geographical divide between the windward and leeward island chains.
Examples in context
- Aaet, ijeļā ke kwomaron̄ kōtōprak aikuj e aō.Yes, I know that you can handle my request.This sentence shows how to use aaet to express agreement regarding a request.
- Aaet, kwōm̧an.Yes, you can eat.
Example conversation
David asks Jane if she is ready to go.
- DavidJane, ejam̧an kōm̧m̧an kōtōprak?Jane, are you ready to go?
- JaneAaet, iakwei kōm̧m̧an.Yes, I am ready.
- DavidEjajļo̧k kōm̧m̧an eoņ.Let's go now.
- JaneAaet, iakwe.Yes, let's go.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “yes” translations and entries aaet, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Wiktionary CC BY-SA 4.0.
