sōtia
The Tongan word for soldier is sōtia.
sōtia is used to refer to a member of an army.
Meaning: member of an army (noun)
Did you know?
- The word sōtia is a loanword derived from the English word 'soldier'.
- While sōtia describes a professional soldier, the term to'a refers to a warrior who possesses innate bravery and spiritual strength.
- In royal Tongan contexts, the duties of a sōtia are often intertwined with the complex system of faka'apa'apa or respect and social hierarchy.
Examples in context
- ʻOku ʻi ai ha sōtia ʻi he fangaʻofua.There is a soldier in the area.
- Naʻe matau ʻa e sōtia ko iá.That soldier was brave.
Example conversation
Akuila and Sina are talking about a person in uniform.
- AkuilaKo hai e tangata ko iá?Who is that man?
- SinaKo e sōtia ia, Akuila.He is a soldier, Akuila.
- AkuilaʻOku ʻia ia e ngaahi tēʻī?Does he have the weapons?
- SinaʻIo, ko e sōtia ia.Yes, he is a soldier.
