kwáʼásiní

Navajo

Etymology

kwá- (progressive mode marker) + ʼá- (thematic) + -ł- (classifier) + -zin (neuter stem) (from -zį́į́ʼ (perfective stem, concerned with the mind, thinking, wanting)) + -í (nominalizer)

Noun

kwáʼásiní

1. (vocative) relatives, loved ones, friends; especially, the deceased, those who have passed on

Usage notes

Although it is often used in public by orators when addressing an audience, it disturbs a lot of people and it should be avoided except when used to refer to loved ones who have passed on. Use shikʼéí dóó shidineʼé or ałtah áásįįłgóó to address an audience.

Synonyms

• kwáʼásįįł