English is the most commonly used
Norfolk Island Language. Along with English, people of Norfolk Island also use another native dialect when communicating with each other. This native language is known as 'Norfolk'.
'Norfolk' is the most commonly spoken language of the Norfolk Island. This language was introduced in the Norfolk Island during 1856 by the Pitcairners. This language was actually developed by the Bounty rebels and their Tahitian wives, when they settled down in Pitcairn. They developed this language by mixing the elements of the 18th century English and Polynesian or Tahitian. It is important to note here that this native language of the Norfolk Island is usually not written. Although the people of this land are well versed with the English Language, there are certain Norfolk phrases knowing which may help the visitor. Some of the common Norfolk phrases and words along with their respective English meaning are given below:-
- Whutta-waye? - H ow are you?
- All yorlye Gwen? - How are you all?
- I car foot - I don't know.
- Daffy - here
- Deffy - there
- Hui-hui - appallingly dirty and smelly
- Webout you Gwen? - Where are you going
Norfolk, the important Norfolk Island Language also does not follow any well accepted body of rules regarding the spellings of the words.
