iko
The English phrase "you" is translated into Fijian as iko.
iko is a subject pronoun used to refer to the person being addressed.
Meaning: subject pronoun: the person being addressed (pron)
Which one should you use?
iko refers to a single person in informal settings, whereas kemuni is used when addressing multiple people (plural) or when you wish to use a polite singular "you".
How does it change in a sentence?
iko is used for the singular "you".
Did you know?
- While iko is the singular 'you', Fijian has an entire system of 'inclusive' and 'exclusive' plural pronouns. This means there are different words for 'we' depending on whether the person being addressed is included in the group.
- Fijian pronouns like iko are part of a larger linguistic family that includes languages spoken in the Philippines and Indonesia, reflecting the widespread reach of the Austronesian expansion.
- The root of iko traces back to Proto-Austronesian, meaning this simple word connects modern speakers to a vast maritime history spanning thousands of years.
Examples in context
- Au na vukei iko ka qai solia vei iko.I will help you, then will give it to you.This sentence demonstrates how to use the form iko.
Example conversation
Teresia and Isoa are greeting each other at home.
- TeresiaYalo vinaka, isoa. Sa qai raba iko?Hello, Isoa. Have I seen you already?
- IsoaIo, Teresia. Au sa vakarau tiko.Yes, Teresia. I am getting ready.
- TeresiaNa cava mada na nomu ivakacala iko?What is your plan for yourself?
- IsoaAu na lako ki na sali.I am going to the market.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “you” translations and entries iko, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries iko, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Wiktionary CC BY-SA 4.0.
