If you find yourself in New Zealand or perhaps another part of Polynesia, you may hear this peculiar phrase being said. Though odds are that you have heard it instead in the Disney movie Moana as it is the name of one of the Goddesses of Life in the film. There is quite a lot of speculation when it comes to the phrase “Te Fiti”, and we will be going over its possible definitions, usage, and origins in this post. Let’s get started! This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression
Meaning
“Te Fiti” does not have a direct English translation, as is the case with many languages when they convert from one to the other. The best definition that exists is a “far off place”, according to some Maori translations. It is also speculated to be of African origin meaning “giver of life”.
If you are not familiar with Polynesia, allow us to explain. Polynesia is a large collection of islands in the Pacific Ocean made up of many similar, yet distinct cultures. This includes Hawai’i, New Zealand, Cook Islands, Tonga, and many more. So chances are you might be able to find several definitions for “Te Fiti” depending on where you are.
As stated earlier, “Te Fiti” does not exactly have a true English translation. It’s a phrase that only really makes sense within its own language and culture. Sort of similar to how New Zealand’s Polynesian name is Aotearoa, or “The Land of the Long White Cloud”.
Example Usage
“Te Fiti is the Mother of life”.
“Maoi stole the heart of Te Fiti in Moana”.
“We should all give thanks to Te Fiti for her generous gifts”.
“It is important that we respect and care for Te Fiti in all things”.
“Without the great Te Fiti, none of us would be alive”.
Origin
The true origin of “Te Fiti” is incredibly difficult to settle upon. Odds are that it is simply a name created for Moana as the film is largely inspired by all of Polynesian culture so there isn’t exactly a way to fully pinpoint where it could originate from.
If you consider its other possible definitions, it would originate from Maori culture when talking about “a far off place”. The other definition would come from African culture when it means “giver of life”.
Phrases Similar to Te Fiti
- Maori: Indigenous people of New Zealand.
- The Maori are big and tough. Perfect for rugby.
- Haka: Ceremonial Maori dance.
- The Haka is performed in a large group before events.
- Ohana: Hawaiian word for “family”.
- Ohana means family. Family means no one gets left behind.
Phrases Opposite to Te Fiti
- There aren’t any decent opposite phrases for “Te Fiti” since it only makes sense within a very specific context and language that doesn’t translate into English very well.
What is The Correct Saying?
- Te Fiti: teh - fee - tee
Ways People May Incorrectly Say Te Fiti
Polynesia is made up of many different cultures, languages, and customs. As a result, saying “Te Fiti” in almost any context, will make very little sense. The best way to use this term correctly is when referring to the Goddess in Moana. Some examples of improper usage are:
- Hey Te Fiti, I need you to get this work done ASAP.
- You are no better than Te Fiti, always creating trouble.
- The Te Fiti in the movie is the love interest.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase Te Fiti
When talking about the Goddess in Moana, using “Te Fiti” is appropriate as it is her official name and people will most likely understand what you are talking about. Other examples are:
- It is important to care for Te Fiti just as you would Gia.
- The people on the island love and respect Te Fiti above all else.
- Try to understand how important Te Fiti is to the islanders.