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More than 50 new Maori terms have been invented for Facebook.
It's part of a glossary developed by Maori-speaking computer users
since the translation of Microsoft Windows a decade ago.
This includes the Maori term for 'active directory domain services',
which stores information about objects on a network for users.
Here to discuss this, we have Te Haumihiata Mason,
language services manager at the Maori Language Commission.
Tena koe, Te Haumihiata.
You believe translators
coining new words in isolation
puts the language at risk.
How so?
No, what I did say was that
some of those who create
words for the new world,
including the world of technology,
they're working alone.
That's what I said - they're not collaborating.
One will use his word, while another has there own, as does another.
By the end, there are too many Maori terms for the one English word.
That's what I'm against.
Can you give me an example of how coining words can get out of hand?
Yes, I can give you an example.
The word 'space' - when typing, your thumb taps the space bar,
and you have a space between your words,
the word that come after.
For that, I found three words this morning.
'Mokowa' will suffice. I have no qualms with that.
The second was 'tiriwa'. That will also suffice.
But the third was 'matimati'.
What does that have to do with the English word?
That's the question.
Your response to comments that Te Taura Whiri takes too long
approving new words?
Are you dredging up that four-year-old comment?
Yes.
I have no idea.
I've received no requests from whoever said that.
Your advice for those who make up Maori words.
First, check the various Maori dictionaries.
It may have already been done.
A translator may have already done it.
That first.
Second, if you've composed a new word,
share your ideas with someone else so you can assess its merit.
There's nothing wrong with that. There's no shame in it.
Third - Te Taura Whiri has a new word list that's open
to registered translators.
If they like your translation, it will be written there.
That's all we have for you. Te Haumihiata Mason, thank you.