Communication Habits of Papua New Guinea Women: Understanding Their Style and Common Phrases

Introduction: Communication in Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea (PNG) is a linguistically and culturally diverse country with over 800 languages. Women in PNG communicate in ways deeply influenced by their community traditions, placing importance on maintaining harmony, showing respect, and often adopting a more reserved tone. Across different age groups, women’s communication evolves with their roles in family, community, and society, and modern influences are increasingly seen among younger generations.

Communication Habits by Age Group

12-18 Years Old

Teenage girls in PNG tend to follow traditional norms of modesty and respect when communicating with elders. In informal settings, however, they adopt a more relaxed tone, especially among peers. Social media has brought in new ways of expression, but face-to-face conversations still hold cultural significance. Common greetings like "Halo tru" (How are you?) are popular among younger women. Non-verbal communication such as eye contact is minimal when speaking with elders to show deference, while among peers, gestures and laughter are frequent.

19-29 Years Old

As women transition into adulthood, their communication often shifts to a balance of respect and assertiveness, particularly in work or community leadership roles. Women in this age group may use traditional forms of address but are more likely to incorporate modern, Western-influenced phrases. For example, they might say "Tenkyu tumas" (Thank you very much) in a mix of Tok Pisin and English. Non-verbal cues, such as hand gestures, are common in informal settings, while a more formal tone is used during professional or family interactions.

30-39 Years Old

In their thirties, women are often seen as community leaders or caretakers of the household, and their communication reflects responsibility and authority. Phrases like "Mi save" (I understand) and "Yumi tok" (Let’s talk) are frequently used in community discussions. They adopt a more commanding tone when necessary, especially in familial or social gatherings, while still maintaining a respectful approach towards elders. Their communication habits tend to balance traditional values with the practicalities of modern life.

40 Years Old and Above

Older women in PNG command high respect within their communities. Communication at this age is centered around maintaining harmony, respect, and modesty. They often use proverbs or traditional expressions, such as "Gutpela tingting" (Good thoughts), to guide conversations. Their tone is formal, especially in community settings, where they are looked to for wisdom and guidance. These women often lead by example, and their communication reflects their status as matriarchs or leaders within extended families.

Common Phrases and Slang by Age Group

12-18 Years Old

• "Halo tru" – A casual greeting similar to "How are you?"
• "Wai na?" – Used to ask "Why?"
• "Gutpla" – Meaning "good" or "well."
• "Stap isi" – A way of telling someone to "Take it easy."
• "Yu orait?" – Asking "Are you okay?"

19-29 Years Old

• "Tenkyu tumas" – Expressing gratitude, meaning "Thank you very much."
• "Mi ting" – Meaning "I think."
• "Sapos" – Meaning "If" or "suppose."
• "Lukim yu" – Used for "See you later."
• "Lusim" – Meaning "Leave it" or "Let it go."

30-39 Years Old

• "Mi save" – Used to indicate understanding, meaning "I understand."
• "Yumi go" – "Let’s go" or "We’ll go."
• "Inap nau" – Meaning "That’s enough."
• "Taim bilong" – Referring to "The time of" or "The moment of."
• "Kain olsem" – Used to say "Something like that."

40 Years Old and Above

• "Gutpela tingting" – Meaning "Good thoughts" or a way to offer advice.
• "Mi tingim yu" – Meaning "I remember you" or "I’m thinking of you."
• "Yumi tok" – An invitation to "Let’s talk" or discuss.
• "Longpela taim" – Meaning "A long time."
• "Mi stap" – A common way to say "I’m here."

Conclusion

Women in Papua New Guinea communicate with a unique blend of traditional respect and modern influences. Their communication style varies significantly across age groups, but all share a common theme of maintaining harmony and showing respect. Younger women are adopting more casual phrases influenced by social media, while older generations adhere to traditional modes of expression. Understanding these dynamics can greatly improve communication with PNG women, whether in a professional setting or during casual social interactions.