Nānā
The Tahitian word for goodbye is Nānā.
The word Nānā is used to express farewell.
Meaning: farewell (intj)
Which one should you use?
Nānā rā is a formal way to say goodbye used when saying goodbye to a group or in a professional environment.
Did you know?
- In Tahitian, the concept of 'farewell' is often linked to the idea of 'watching' or 'looking after', as Nānā is a command to 'look' or 'behold'.
- Depending on the region of French Polynesia, you might hear a mix of Nānā and the French 'Au revoir', showing how colonial history has layered the way people say goodbye.
- In many Polynesian cultures, including Tahiti, the way you depart is as important as the way you arrive, often involving specific levels of verbal politeness.
Examples in context
- Nānā i te haere.Goodbye, go safely.
Example conversation
Teva and Moani are parting ways after a walk.
- TevaE rēva au i nei, Moani.I am leaving now, Moani.
- MoaniI’o, nānā Teva!Yes, goodbye Teva!
- TevaĀ pea a Poincaré.See you later.
- MoaniĀ pea!See you!
