arohanui
arohanui is the Māori phrase for "sorry for your loss".
arohanui is a standard way to express deep sympathy or condolences in a Māori context. While it literally translates to "much love", it is used to convey support to someone who has experienced the death of a loved one.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
arohanui is considered informal or semi-formal. It is a common way to sign off on a sympathy card or to express your condolences in a social media post.
When do people say it?
In written form, such as on a sympathy card or a social media post, arohanui is a common way to sign off or express sympathy.
Did you know?
- Condolences are often delivered during a tangihanga, a traditional funeral rite that can last for several days and involves the community staying together.
- In many Māori contexts, showing sympathy is not just about the words said, but about the physical presence of the person supporting the grieving family.
- The concept of aroha is central to the Māori worldview of interconnectedness, making the phrase more about communal connection than individual sadness.
Examples in context
- Arohanui ki te whānau.Deep sympathy to the family.
Example conversation
Kahu is visiting Rawiri after a family bereavement.
- KahuTēnā koe, Rawiri. Arohanui ki a koe.Greetings, Rawiri. I am sorry for your loss.
- RawiriTēnā koe, Kahu. Ngā mihi nui.Greetings, Kahu. Thank you very much.
- KahuKei konei ahau mō koe.I am here for you.
- RawiriKa nui te aroha.Much love.
