[Tlhingan-hol] Klingon Word of the Day: jat

[Steven Boozer]

> Klingon Word of the Day for Friday, March 14, 2014
> 
> Klingon word: jat
> Part of speech: verb
> Definition: speak incoherently, mumble (slang)

KGT 30:  The Ruk'evet word for "be clumsy" is {jat}, which is phonetically identical to the noun meaning tongue.  Even though this is probably just a coincidence, there is a slang term {jat}, used throughout the Empire but somewhat more frequently in the areas near Ruk'evet, which means "speak incoherently, mumble", a notion with negative connotations for Klingons.  Enunciating Klingon clearly is always important, but one should take extra care to not accidentally say {jat} (mumble) when intending the similar-sounding {ja'} (say), {jatlh} (speak), or {jach} (yell).

Also {jaw} "chat", {jang} "answer, reply", and possibly {jaq} "be bold".

Similar words:

tlhup		 	whisper (v)
jatlhHa'  		say the wrong thing, misspeak (v)


CK:  As you practice speaking, remember:  Speak Klingon boldly; do not be meek or hesitant.  This could be interpreted as a sign of weakness, a less than admirable trait among Klingons.

KGT 186:  It is important for anyone visiting a Klingon settlement to be aware that saying the wrong thing or saying it in the wrong way may not only lead to communication difficulties but also may be detrimental to one's health.
 
KGT 188:  Mispronunciation may turn dangerous, on the other hand, if one Klingon sound is substituted for another.
	

--
Voragh
Ca'Non Master of the Klingons