thov
The Hmong word for please is thov.
thov is an interjection used to make a polite request.
Meaning: interjection to make a polite request (intj)
Did you know?
- In many Hmong dialects, the word thov is also the formal verb used when asking for a blessing or a prayer from an elder or a shaman.
- Hmong was historically an unwritten language, so the spelling of thov in the Romanized Popular Alphabet was developed much later to help standardize the language.
- In some Hmong cultural settings, making a request with thov is accompanied by a specific physical posture, such as bowing or slightly lowering the head, to reinforce the politeness.
Examples in context
- Qaib, thov.Chicken, please.This sentence shows how to use thov when requesting something like chicken.Tatoeba #12816487 by Kassa, translation #40235 by CM
- Thov pab kuv.Please help me.
- Thov hais dua.Please say it again.
Example conversation
Nao asks Tou to pass her a glass of water.
- NaoTou, thov muab cov dej rau kuv.Tou, please give the water to me.
- TouNyob ntawm qhov twg?Where is it?
- NaoNws nyob ntawm lub rooj.It is on the table.
- TouKoj tau lawm.Here you go.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
