kei hea koe e mahi ana
The English phrase "where you work" is translated into Maori as kei hea koe e mahi ana.
This phrase is used to ask someone about the location of their place of employment.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, the phrase breaks down to "at where you working".
Did you know?
- The word koe is thought by some linguists to be onomatopoeic, meaning its very sound may have been designed to mimic a specific noise or sensation.
- In Maori culture, mahi is often understood as a collective effort for the community rather than a task performed by a single individual.
- While 'work' in English often refers to a job, the Maori word mahi can also specifically refer to a finished craft or a work of art.
Examples in context
- E mōhiotia ana e au kei hea koe e mahi ana.I know where you work.
Example conversation
Two friends are catching up at a cafe.
- AnaheraKia ora Manaia, kei hea koe e mahi ana?Hello Manaia, where do you work?
- ManaiaKei te mahi au i te kura.I work at the school.
- AnaheraHe pai tēnā!That is good!
- ManaiaĀe, he tino pai.Yes, it is very good.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ana, koe, mahi, CC BY-SA 4.0.
