Aloha nō wau iā ʻoe
The English phrase "I love you too" is translated into Hawaiian as Aloha nō wau iā ʻoe.
This phrase is used to respond to someone who has expressed their love for you, indicating that you feel the same way.
Which one should you use?
While Aloha nō wau iā ʻoe is the standard form, you may also encounter the informal version Aloha au iā 'oe ho'i to convey the same meaning.
Did you know?
- The phrase is built on an Austronesian foundation, meaning its core words for 'I' wau and 'you' ʻoe are related to languages spoken as far away as Taiwan and Indonesia.
- In Hawaiian culture, aloha is more than just 'love' or 'hello'. It represents a spiritual connection and the sharing of the breath of life between people.
- While English speakers use 'love' for everything from pizza to partners, aloha encompasses a broader sense of compassion, mercy and benevolence toward all beings.
Examples in context
- Aloha nō wau iā ʻoe, e kuʻu lei.I love you too, my beloved.
Example conversation
A couple is sharing a sweet moment at sunset.
- KianaAloha wau iā ʻoe, e Keanu.I love you, Keanu.
- KeanuAloha nō wau iā ʻoe, e Kiana.I love you too, Kiana.
- KianaHe mea nani kēia.This is beautiful.
- KeanuʻAe, he mea nani loa.Yes, it is very beautiful.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Aloha, aloha, wau, ʻoe, CC BY-SA 4.0.
