wā
/ˈwaː/
The English word 'time' is translated into Maori as wā.
wā is used to refer to a measurement of a quantity of time. You can modify the duration by placing adjectives after the noun: wā roa means a long time, and wā poto means a short time.
Meaning: measurement of a quantity of time (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
To specify the noun, you can use articles. Use the definite article te to say 'the time' as in te wā, or use the indefinite article he to mean 'a time' or 'some time' as in he wā.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈwaː/
Did you know?
- The concept of wā is often linked to mana, where the timing of an action can determine the spiritual power or success of a venture.
- In traditional Maori thought, the past and future are not always viewed as a linear line. wā can be experienced as a fluid state where the ancestors are present in the current moment.
- Maori has no single word for 'second' or 'minute' that is not a loanword. Traditional concepts of wā were based on natural cycles and events rather than mechanical divisions.
Examples in context
- I tatari ahau ki a Tom mō te wā roa.I waited for Tom for a long time.This sentence is useful for practicing the phrase 'wā roa' (long time).Tatoeba #4519729 by iarere91, translation #4081287 by CK
- E hiahia ana ahau kia whakatā koe mō tētahi wā.I want you to take some time off.This sentence shows how to use 'wā' when referring to taking some time.Tatoeba #4462402 by iarere91, translation #2033591 by CK
- Ka roa te wā kia ora rā anō ahau i tēnei rewharewha.It'll take me a long time to get over this cold.This sentence demonstrates using 'wā' to describe a duration of time.Tatoeba #4830458 by iarere91, translation #4830199 by CK
- 5 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Kahu and Tane are planning to meet for lunch.
- KahuHe wā aha tāu mō te hākari?What time do you have for the feast?
- TaneKa taea e au te haere i te wā tēnei.I can go at this time.
- KahuHe wā pai tēnā, Tane.That is a good time, Tane.
- TaneKa kite i a koe i taua wā.I will see you at that time.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry wā, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
