toki sio
toki sio is the Tongan way to say see you later.
toki sio is used as a farewell-style phrase meaning goodbye or see you later.
Meaning: goodbye (phrase)
Did you know?
- The word toki in the phrase is actually the Tongan word for an 'adze' or a stone chopping tool.
- Saying goodbye in a Tongan village can become a lengthy social ritual where farewells are repeated back and forth as people physically distance themselves.
- In many polite Tongan contexts, especially when speaking to elders, one might avoid a direct 'see you' and instead use more formal, honorific language to express the desire for a safe journey.
Examples in context
- Toki sio.See you later.
Example conversation
Tevita and Mele are parting ways after a quick chat.
- TevitaToki sio, Mele.See you later, Mele.
- MeleToki sio, Tevita.See you later, Tevita.
- TevitaʻOfa atu.Love you.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries toki, CC BY-SA 4.0.
