Le'a Faka-Tonga
(Language Basics)
(Language Basics)
The English transiation for the phrase "Malo e lelei"
What is Hello?
The traditional underground earth oven used for cooking large vfeasts.
What is the 'umu?
The iconic traditional woven mat worn around the waist as a sign of respect
What is a ta'ovala?
The capital city of the Kingdom of Tonga, located in the island of Tongatapu.
What is Nuku'alofa?
The current ruling King of Tonga (ascending the throne in 2012)
Who is King Tupou VI?
The Tongan Word for "Thank You"
What is Malo?
A popular tongan dish made of canned corned beef,onion,and coconut cream wrapped in taro leaves.
What is lu kapapulu?
The traditional Tongan dance performed by women, characterized by subtle hand movements and grace.
What is tau'olunga?
Tonga is unique among pacific nations because it was never officially this.
What is colonized?
The official colors of the Tongan national flag.
What are red and white?
In Tongan, the word "ofa" translates to this universal human emotion
What is Love?
This staple tongan root crop comes in varieties like talo and ufi.
What is Taro?
The grand, rhythmic group dance often performed by men (and women) that tells stories of historical events.
What is kailao or lakalaka?
The nickname given to Tonga Captain James Cook due to warm hospitality he received.
What are the "Friendly Islands"?
Tonga.s national rugby union team
Who are the Ikale Tahi'?
This tongan phrase means "goodbye" to someone who is leaving.
What is Nofo A'?
A refreshing Tongan drink made from crushed watermelon,coconut, water and condensed milk
What is Otai'?
Barkcloth made from the mulberry tree, painted with traditional motifs, used for gifts and ceremonies.
What is ngatu?( or tapa cloth)
The ancient, massive stone trilithan located in Eastern Tongatapu, often called the " Stonehenge of the Pacific."
What is the Ha'amonga a Maui?
The historical figure who unified the islands and became Tonga's first modern monarch in 1845.
Who is King George Tupou I?
The symbol used in written Tongan (like in ofa) thht represents a glottal stop.
What is the fakau'a?
A traditional ceremonial beverage brewed from the root of a pepper plant, used in traditional Tongan gatherings.
What is Kava?
The core Tongan cultural value translated as "mutual respect"
What is faka'apa'apa?
The major island group in northern Tonga known for its topical beauty, sailing, and humpback whales.
What is Va'vau?
The Sacred Royal Cemetary in Lapaha where Tongan monarchs are buried
What are the Langi?