A useful example of the emic-etic distinction may be made by comparing the concept waves on the ocean or sea from the perspective of a European American with that of a Truk Islander. . . The proposed etics here might be that both cultures understand the use of waves as vehicles for surfing and as movement reflecting the transfer of energy . . . certain differences, or emics exist, For European Americans the waves may be sources of beauty - - the Truk Islander has learned to use them . . . as a road map.