hu mai
The Niuean phrase for 'come in' is hu mai.
hu mai is used as an invitation or a command directed at someone to enter a room or a building.
Did you know?
- Niuean uses a complex system of directional particles like mai that indicates the action is moving toward the speaker, which is a feature missing in English.
- Beyond physical doors, you can use hu mai to figuratively invite someone to join a social group or a specific activity.
- The phrase hu mai is used for both humans and animals, such as calling a pet dog to enter the house.
Examples in context
- Hu mai e fakahele.Come in and have a rest.
Example conversation
Tala is standing outside Sione's house and knocks on the door.
- SioneKo e hai?Who is it?
- TalaKo au e Tala.It is me, Tala.
- SioneHu mai e Tala.Come in, Tala.
- TalaFakafetai, Sione.Thank you, Sione.
