ʻOku ou fehiʻa kiate koe
The English phrase "I hate you" is translated into Tongan as ʻOku ou fehiʻa kiate koe.
This phrase is used as an expression of intense dislike.
Meaning: expression of intense dislike (phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of ʻOku ou (I am), fehiʻa (hate/resent) and kiate koe (towards you).
Did you know?
- Tongan is a highly stratified language where the words used for 'you' change depending on the social rank of the person being addressed.
- The word fehiʻa can also describe a deep-seated resentment or grudge that lasts for generations within a family or village, rather than just a temporary feeling of anger.
- Because Tongan culture places high value on 'faka'apa'apa', or respect, expressing this phrase directly can be seen as a significant social transgression rather than just a personal outburst.
Examples in context
- ʻOku ou fehiʻa kiate koe.I hate you.
- ʻOku ou fehiʻa kiate koe ʻi he meʻa naʻá ke fai.I hate you for what you did.
Example conversation
Two friends are arguing after a fight.
- AnaKoe fakaʻosi ʻeni, ʻoku ou fehiʻa kiate koe!This is the end, I hate you!
- TevitaʻOku ou fehiʻa kiate koe foki, Ana.I hate you too, Ana.
- AnaʻOku ʻikai ke tau toe talanoa.We will not talk again.
- TevitaʻOku lelei foki ʻa reckon.That is also fine.
