E komo mai
The Hawaiian phrase for "welcome to" is E komo mai.
E komo mai is used as a greeting to welcome someone to a place. While it is often translated as "welcome," it literally carries the meaning of "come in" or "enter."
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the particle e (used for imperatives), komo (to enter or come in) and the directional particle mai (indicating movement toward the speaker).
How does it change in a sentence?
To say "welcome to [a place]," you must add the preposition i after the phrase, resulting in the form E komo mai i.
Did you know?
- The directional particle mai used in this phrase has ancient roots tracing back to Proto-Austronesian, connecting Hawaiian to languages spoken across Southeast Asia.
- The particle mai is essential because it indicates movement toward the speaker, meaning the speaker must be inside the place they are welcoming someone to.
- In traditional Hawaiian settings, a welcome might be paired with the offering of a lei, a flower garland that symbolizes affection and honor.
Examples in context
- E komo mai i ka honua.Welcome to the earth.
- E komo mai i ka pā.Welcome to the field.
Example conversation
Kai greets Noelani at his front door.
- KaiAloha, Noelani! E komo mai.Hello, Noelani! Welcome.
- NoelaniMahalo, Kai.Thank you, Kai.
- KaiE komo mai i ka hale.Welcome to the house.
- NoelaniHe hale nani kēia!This is a beautiful house!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries komo, mai, CC BY-SA 4.0.
