Hauʻoli lā piha makahiki male
The English phrase 'happy wedding anniversary' is translated into Hawaiian as Hauʻoli lā piha makahiki male.
This phrase is a greeting used to congratulate a couple on the anniversary of their marriage.
Did you know?
- The word lā is a cognate of the Malay word layar and the Tagalog word layag, tracing back to ancient Austronesian roots.
- Traditionally, the Hawaiian New Year was not a single day but a season of peace and sports called the Makahiki that lasted for several months.
- The structure of the phrase relies on the word piha, which conveys the idea of being 'full' or 'complete', implying the year has been fully realized.
Examples in context
- Hauʻoli lā piha makahiki male iā ʻoukou.Happy wedding anniversary to you both.
Example conversation
Koa gives Kiana a bouquet of flowers.
- KoaHauʻoli lā piha makahiki male, e Kiana!Happy wedding anniversary, Kiana!
- KianaMahalo nui, e Koa!Thank you very much, Koa!
- KoaHe pua nō kēia iā ʻoe.These flowers are for you.
- KianaHe nani loa kēia mau pua.These flowers are very beautiful.
