Kia ora! Welcome to our guide on how to say “afternoon” in Te Reo, the indigenous language of Aotearoa (New Zealand). In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover both formal and informal ways of expressing “afternoon” in Te Reo. We’ll also provide you with regional variations, as necessary, along with a range of tips and examples to help you understand and use the word effectively.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Afternoon in Te Reo
When it comes to formal expressions for “afternoon” in Te Reo, you have a few options. Let’s take a look at some of these:
1. Whānau
Whānau is a commonly used term in Te Reo, which means “family.” However, it can also be used to refer to “afternoon” in a formal setting. It is often used when addressing a group of people, such as in a speech or a formal gathering. For example:
Koutou i tēnei whānau!
Good afternoon, everyone!
It’s important to note that using “whānau” in this context emphasizes the sense of togetherness and community.
Informal Ways to Say Afternoon in Te Reo
In informal settings or day-to-day conversations, you’ll often come across different expressions for “afternoon” in Te Reo. Here are a few examples:
1. Ata mārie
“Ata mārie” is an informal way to say “good afternoon” in Te Reo. It is a warm and friendly greeting that can be used in various contexts, from meeting friends to casual workplace interactions. Let’s see it in action:
Ata mārie! He aha ngā mahi ā tēnei ahiahi?
Good afternoon! What are the plans for this afternoon?
2. Tēnā koe i tēnei pō
“Tēnā koe i tēnei pō” is another informal way to greet someone in the afternoon. It translates to “greetings to you this afternoon.” This expression is often used when speaking to someone directly. Here’s an example:
Tēnā koe i tēnei pō! Kei te pai tō rā?
Greetings to you this afternoon! How’s your day going?
Regional Variations
In Te Reo, there can be slight regional variations in expressions for “afternoon.” However, it’s important to note that these variations may not be as commonly used or recognized across the entire country. Here are a couple of regional variations:
1. Pō mārie
In some regions, particularly in Taranaki, “pō mārie” can be used to refer to “good afternoon.” While it shares similarities with “ata mārie,” it specifically emphasizes a greeting for the latter part of the afternoon. For instance:
Pō mārie! Hei aha koe i tēnei ahiahi?
Good afternoon! What are you up to this evening?
2. Mangōpare ki te Rā
In the East Coast region (Ngāti Porou dialect), a unique expression for “good afternoon” is “Mangōpare ki te Rā.” This phrase includes the word “mangōpare,” which symbolizes the hammerhead shark, an important cultural symbol in the area. Here’s an example of its usage:
Mangōpare ki te Rā! Ka kite tātou i te marae?
Good afternoon! Shall we meet at the marae?
Tips for Using Afternoon Greetings
When using the expressions for “afternoon” in Te Reo, keep the following tips in mind:
- Always pronounce the words with respect and a clear understanding of their correct pronunciation.
- Use the appropriate level of formality based on the situation and the people you are addressing.
- Be aware of any regional variations if you are in or interacting with specific areas.
- Pay attention to body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice to ensure your delivery aligns with the warm and friendly nature of these greetings.
- Practice using these phrases with a native speaker or language resources to improve your pronunciation and fluency.
Conclusion
We hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights on how to say “afternoon” in Te Reo. Whether you’re using formal expressions like “whānau” or informal greetings like “ata mārie,” understanding the context and the appropriate level of formality is essential. Don’t forget that regional variations, such as “pō mārie” and “Mangōpare ki te Rā,” may exist but are less commonly used nationwide. With these phrases and tips in mind, you’ll be able to engage with others in Te Reo and experience the warm and rich culture of Aotearoa. Whāia te iti kahurangi, ki te tuohu koe, me he maunga teitei.
