nofo i lalo
The English phrase "sit down" is nofo i lalo in Samoan.
nofo i lalo is used to describe the general action of assuming a sitting position from a standing position.
Meaning: to assume a sitting position from a standing position (verb)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the verb nofo (sit) and the prepositional phrase i lalo (down/below/low).
How does it change in a sentence?
nofo i lalo is used as an imperative or a command to tell someone to sit down.
Did you know?
- The verb nofo means both 'sit' and 'live' or 'dwell'. In Samoan, the act of sitting is conceptually linked to the act of residing in a place.
- In traditional Samoan culture, sitting on the floor is the standard for formal gatherings. Sitting on a chair during a formal 'ava ceremony' could be seen as a sign of superiority or disrespect.
- In many parts of Polynesia, the concept of sitting is tied to the 'ava ceremony. In these high-status contexts, the physical act of sitting is governed by strict protocols that dictate where and how one may sit.
Examples in context
- Nofo mai, uso!Sit down, bro/sis!
- E tatau ona nofo i lalo le tama.The boy must sit down.
- Fa'amolemole, nofo i lalo.Please, sit down.
Example conversation
Sione and Mere are entering a waiting room.
- SioneUa leva le faatali.The wait has been long.
- MereIa nofo i lalo, Sione.Sit down, Sione.
- SioneFaafetai, Mere.Thank you, Mere.
- MereLelei lena.That's good.
