tuki
The Tongan word for a punch (a hit or a strike with one's fist) is tuki.
tuki is used as a noun to refer to the act of a hit or a strike delivered with the fist.
Meaning: a hit or a strike with one's fist (noun)
Which one should you use?
The noun tuki refers to the punch itself, while the related verb hoka means the action of striking someone or something with one's fist.
Related words
Did you know?
- The word tuki is used to describe the process of pounding traditional tubers into a paste.
- In certain poetic or descriptive Tongan contexts, the repetitive 'tuki' of waves against the shore can be used to personify the ocean's strength.
- A person describing a sudden, sharp pain in their chest might use the word tuki to describe the 'thumping' sensation.
Example conversation
Viliami and Mele are talking about a boxing match.
- ViliamiNaʻe mālohi ʻa e tuki ko iá!That punch was strong!
- MeleʻIo, naʻe hoko ʻa e tuki fakaʻauhi.Yes, it was a close punch.
- ViliamiNaʻe tuki ʻia ia ʻe he tangata.The man punched him.
- MeleNaʻe mālohi taha ʻa e tuki ko iá.That punch was very powerful.
