manuia le po
The Samoan phrase for "have a good night" is manuia le po.
manuia le po is a polite greeting used to wish someone a pleasant evening or night.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of manuia (good/blessed), le (the) and po (night/evening).
Did you know?
- The word po can refer to both the time of night and the concept of darkness, which in ancient Samoan mythology was the primordial state of the universe.
- In formal settings, such as a village meeting, wishing a 'good night' may be preceded by a formal acknowledgment of the chief's rank.
- The phrase manuia is also used to congratulate someone on an achievement, essentially wishing them 'continued success' or 'blessings'.
Examples in context
- Ia manuia le po.May the night be good.
Example conversation
Tasi and Losa are saying goodbye after dinner.
- TasiSa’o lava, e tatau ou te alu nei.Alright, I must go now.
- LosaManuia le po, Tasi.Have a good night, Tasi.
- TasiFa’afetai, manuia le po foi, Losa.Thank you, have a good night too, Losa.
- LosaTofā!Goodbye!
