Afio mai
The English phrase "welcome" is translated into Samoan as Afio mai.
Afio mai is the standard greeting used to welcome someone arriving at a home, a village or an event. While Afio mai is specifically for welcoming, the word Tālofa can also be used to say "hello" in general.
Meaning: greeting given upon someone's arrival (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of afio (to arrive or come) and mai (towards the speaker), literally meaning "Come/arrive here".
How does it change in a sentence?
To specifically address a group of people, you can add the plural pronoun outou (you all) after the phrase to say Afio mai outou.
Did you know?
- In traditional welcoming ceremonies, Afio mai might be accompanied by the presentation of a ‘ie tōga, a finely woven mat that represents the highest form of traditional wealth.
- In formal welcomes, the phrase is often part of a fa'asamoa or 'Samoan way' of hosting, where the host may physically lower their head or posture as they speak to show humility.
- The word mai in Afio mai is a directional particle. In Samoan, the direction of movement toward or away from the speaker is grammatically required, a feature English lacks.
Examples in context
- Afio mai le tamaitai.Welcome, lady.
Example conversation
Tasi arrives at Mere's house for a visit.
- MereAfio mai, Tasi!Welcome, Tasi!
- TasiFaafetai tele lava, Mere.Thank you very much, Mere.
- MereE te fia inu i se vai?Do you want to drink some water?
- TasiIoe, faafetai lava.Yes, thank you.
