fano
The Niuean word for 'go' is fano.
fano is used to describe moving through space, particularly from one location to another. Aside from its standard use as a verb, it can be used as an imperative command to tell someone to go!
Meaning: to move through space (especially from one place to another) (verb)
How does it change in a sentence?
The form fano can function as an imperative command. Additionally, the word alu is used in a different context to mean 'let's go' or 'come'.
Did you know?
- In Niuean, the choice of whether to use fano or alu depends entirely on whether you are moving towards or away from the person you are speaking to.
- The word fano is part of a wider Polynesian linguistic family, making it a cognate with words for 'go' or 'move' in languages like Tongan and Samoan.
- The distinction between fano and alu is a classic example of how Polynesian languages prioritize the speaker's perspective in movement.
Examples in context
- Haere koe ki VaihalaGo to Vaihala
- Fano ki Mutu.Go to Mutu.
- Ke fano koe.You should go.
- Fano atu e fofola.Go and spread it out.
Example conversation
Sione and Tala are deciding where to go for the day.
- SioneKa fano au ki taha moana.I am going to a beach.
- TalaKa fano au mo koe, Sione.I will go with you, Sione.
- SioneKa fano kitaki kitai.Let's go together.
- TalaFano kitai i te koutou.Let's go now.
