e leʻaleʻa
The Hawaiian phrase for "enjoy yourself" is e leʻaleʻa.
e leʻaleʻa is a phrase used to tell someone to have a good time.
How does it change in a sentence?
The particle e is used here to form an imperative or command, turning the noun/verb leʻaleʻa into a directive to enjoy oneself.
Did you know?
- The root word leʻa refers to a state of being 'happy' or 'joyful', but in ancient Hawaiian contexts, it also carried the connotation of being 'victorious' or 'successful'.
- The concept of 'enjoyment' in Hawaiian culture is often tied to communal harmony rather than just individual sensation, reflecting the importance of 'lokahi' or unity.
- The glottal stop, represented by the symbol ʻ in leʻaleʻa, is a full consonant in Hawaiian. If omitted, the rhythm and meaning of the word can change entirely.
Examples in context
- E leʻaleʻa i ka hui!Enjoy yourself at the party!
- E leʻaleʻa i kēia pō.Enjoy yourself this evening.
Example conversation
Kai is waving goodbye to Malia as she heads to a party.
- KaiE leʻaleʻa, Malia!Enjoy yourself, Malia!
- MaliaMahalo, Kai.Thank you, Kai.
- KaiHe lā maikaʻi kēlā.It is a great day.
- MaliaʻAe, e ʻike hou iā ʻoe.Yes, see you later.
