How to Speak the Tahitian Language

LEARN THE WORDS OF MANA

Before heading to Tahiti, it’s good to know a little bit about the languages commonly spoken throughout the Society Islands in French Polynesia.This region includes popular vacation spots like Tahiti and Bora Bora. While French is the only official language of Tahiti, Tahitian is a commonly spoken language among locals and is often used by islanders in their homes. Although English is spoken and understood in most tourist areas, it can be both helpful and rewarding to learn basic French and Tahitian that you can use anywhere from Bora Bora resorts to local schools and businesses during your trip. 

PARAU TAHITI ‘OE? – Do You Speak Tahitian?

Here’s a list of a few common Tahitian words and phrases that can help you make a good first impression on the island of Tahiti. Follow along and learn the basics of how to speak Tahiti’s language!

Greeting People

To say “Good morning” to someone, say “ ‘Ia ora na!” If they answer you with “E aha tō ‘oe huru?”, (How are you?), you can answer: “Maita’i!” (Good!), “Maita’i roa!” (Very good!) or even “Maita’i ri’i.” (Not bad.)

Saying Thank You

If you want to say “Thank you,” say “Māuruuru.” If you want to say “No thank you,” say “ ‘Aita māuruuru.” To say “Thank you very much,” say “Māuruuru roa!”

Saying Goodbye

To say goodbye to someone, say “Nānā!” (Until we meet again!)

Yes Or No

To say “yes,” say “ ‘E!” To say “maybe”, say “ ‘A!” To say “no,” say “ ‘Aita!” – or, to say a firm “no,” say “E’ita!”

Glottal Stop, The Letter H, Accents And Misunderstandings

A glottal stop is regularly used in Tahitian. It is a genuine consonant just like the others. However, it is represented by a straight apostrophe (‘) instead of with letters. It is pronounced by emphasizing the pronunciation of the following syllable. Make sure you know when and when not to use “h”.  In addition, vowels are long when they have an accent mark (ā, ē, ī, ō and ū). Depending on how you use these subtleties of pronunciation, the meaning may vary, much to the amusement of the Polynesians!

Examples:

– Te ū means milk but Te hū means fart

You have been warned!

Here’s a Little Lexicon of Tahitian Words and Expressions