mālama pono
In Hawaiian, "take care of yourself" is expressed as mālama pono.
The phrase mālama pono is a warm parting sentiment used when saying goodbye to tell someone to stay healthy and safe, much like saying "take care" or "stay safe" in English.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the verb mālama, meaning to care for, protect or preserve and the adverb pono, meaning well, properly or right.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase does not require a specific pronoun for "yourself" because the imperative form inherently directs the command to the person being addressed.
Did you know?
- The word pono may share an ancient ancestor with the Malay word benar meaning 'true' or 'correct'.
- The concept of pono extends beyond personal health to describe a state of perfect balance and harmony within the universe.
- The verb mālama is used not only for people but also for the environment. To mālama ʻāina means to care for and protect the land, which is considered a sacred duty in Hawaii.
Examples in context
- E mālama pono iā 'oe, aunty.Aunty, take care of yourself.
- Mālama pono iā 'oe, ku'u keiki.Take good care of yourself, my child.
- Mālama pono e.Take care of yourself.
Example conversation
Ikaika is saying goodbye to Leilani at the airport.
- IkaikaAloha ʻoe, Leilani.Goodbye, Leilani.
- LeilaniAloha, Ikaika. E mālama pono iā ʻoe.Goodbye, Ikaika. Take care of yourself.
- IkaikaMahalo, mālama pono iā ʻoe.Thank you, take care of yourself.
- LeilaniA hui hou.Until we meet again.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries pono, CC BY-SA 4.0.
