How to Say “Congratulations” in Tongan

By Alisha Tara • Updated October 1, 2026

malo e lelei

Congratulations in Tongan is expressed as malo e lelei.

The phrase is used to express approbation.

Meaning: expressing approbation (intj)

Did you know?

The word lelei is shared with other Polynesian languages, such as Tuvaluan and Samoan.

Example conversation

Ana and Viliami are celebrating a graduation.

Ana

Malo e lelei, Viliami!
Congratulations, Viliami!
Viliami

Malo, Ana.
Thank you, Ana.
Ana

Ko e ngāue mālohi na'e faka'aau.
It was hard work.
Viliami

Io, 'oku ou fiefia.
Yes, I am happy.

Sources

Word origins: Wiktionary entries e, lelei, CC BY-SA 4.0.

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About The Author

Alisha Tara

Sighiso' mo e lelei! I'm Alisha, your go-to girl for all things Tongan language. Through my comprehensive guides, I've walked hand-in-hand with readers across the globe, teaching them the beauty of this Polynesian language, from standard greetings to the silliest slang. But I am not just about wordplay; I love kicking back on golden sands, curling up with feline friends, and getting lost in the rhythms of traditional music. Malo aupito!

Alisha TaraHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.

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