iakwe, ejet am mour
The phrase iakwe, ejet am mour is how to say hello, how are you in Marshallese.
This phrase is a common greeting used to say hello and ask about someone's well-being.
What does it mean word for word?
The word iakwe literally means love, but it is used as the standard greeting for hello.
When do people say it?
In Marshallese, the most common way to say hello is by using the word iakwe.
Did you know?
- The term mour is a cognate of the Hawaiian word mauri, which refers to a life force or spiritual energy.
- The greeting iakwe functions similarly to 'aloha' in Hawaiian, as both words derive their meaning from the concept of 'love'.
- The term iakwe functions as a versatile social tool that can serve as a greeting, a farewell, or an expression of affection depending on the context.
Examples in context
- Iakwe, ejet am mour?Hello, how are you?
Example conversation
Jane and Samuel meet each other on the street.
- JaneIakwe, ejet am mour, Samuel?Hello, how are you, Samuel?
- SamuelIakwe, Jane. Ejjab mōmne.Hello, Jane. I am doing well.
- JaneIakwe, ejet am mour, am kōmmi jōmne?Hello, how are you, are you doing well?
- SamuelEe, ejjab mōmne, kaseje.Yes, I am doing well, thank you.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries mour, CC BY-SA 4.0.
