T’on k’pi

This introduces a new FSE spelling for the phrase Tonk'peh, because it is, like so many other similar phrases, undefined, and no reason is given for the current spelling.

(Alt FSE : Tonk’peh, Dong'pay)

FSE Trans: Hi! 

Lit: A small thing we share

Pron: TAWn(kh) P(eh)

For close friends and family, when not in general public or doing something even slightly formal, it is common to use the greeting, “T’on k’pi,” which is similar to “Hi,” in tone and formality. 

The literal translation is, “belonging to both (of us), with’ a small (thing)” or, “A small thing we share.” (‘T’ ’ means “to belong to,” ‘on’ means “both,” ‘k’ ’ means “with,” and ‘pi’ ’ is an affix indicating a thing of small size.)

Again, the modern meaning and usage derives from a much older connotation which is not necessarily well served, or made immediately obvious, by a literal translation. It may be seen as roughly analogous to, “We are friends/family.”

Pronunciation note: The phrase begins with a strong, plosive “TAW” followed by a sub-vocal, slightly nasal “ng-k,” Followed by another plosive “P” and a soft, trailing “eh.” Somephilologists have rendered it as, “Dong Pay.”

Dif-tor heh smusma

-- T'Lara