mo
The Tongan word for "and" is mo.
The word mo is a conjunction used to connect two similar elements, such as words or phrases.
Meaning: used to connect two similar words, phrases, et cetera (conj)
How does it change in a sentence?
As a particle, mo is used to join nouns or phrases. It remains constant and does not change its form based on the number or gender of the words it connects.
Did you know?
- In certain classical Tongan compositions, the use of mo is strictly regulated by the social status of the subjects being joined.
- In many Tongan dialects, the word mo might be replaced by a different particle depending on whether the items being connected are people or inanimate objects.
- Tongan differentiates between mo and pea, where pea is used to add information as an afterthought rather than as a combined unit.
Example conversation
Tevita and Mele are talking about their shopping list.
- TevitaTau fai kumi 'a mana mo pa'i.Let's look for bread and eggs.
- Mele'Ae, mo e lēmoni foki.Yes, and lemons too.
- TevitaOku ma'u mo e vai 'i he loa.We have and the water is in the store.
- MeleTau mamahi mo lūlū.Let's hurry and go.
