'ofa lahi atu
In Tongan, "much love" is expressed as 'ofa lahi atu.
'ofa lahi atu is a warm closing commonly used as a sign-off in text messages, emails or letters to friends and family members.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of 'ofa (love), lahi (much, big or great) and atu (a particle indicating direction away from the speaker toward the recipient), literally meaning "love much to you".
Which one should you use?
While 'ofa lahi atu emphasizes the magnitude of the affection (much love), the form 'ofa atu is a more standard way to say "love you" or "love to you".
How does it change in a sentence?
Removing lahi (much) from the phrase results in 'ofa atu, which is a slightly less intense but still affectionate closing.
Did you know?
- Tongan has a highly complex system of honorifics, meaning that while 'ofa lahi atu is warm, different words for 'love' or different phrasing would be used when addressing royalty.
- In Tongan culture, the concept of 'ofa is deeply tied to reciprocity and the duty of care within the extended family network.
- The word 'ofa is used not only for romantic love but also to describe the quality of compassion and mercy in a religious or spiritual context.
Examples in context
- 'ofa lahi atu,Much love,
Example conversation
Akuila and Losa are sending each other text messages.
- AkuilaFaka'apa'apa atu, Losa. Kai mālō.Respectfully, Losa. Thank you.
- LosaMālō 'au tōhi mai, Akuila.Thank you for writing, Akuila.
- AkuilaTau tōka'i atu, 'ofa lahi atu.Take care, much love.
- Losa'Ofa lahi atu mo koe.Much love to you too.
