kia kaha

Maori

Etymology

From the verbal particle kia and kaha (“(be) strong, strength”).

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /ki.aˈka.ha/, [ki.ɐˈkɐ.hɐ]

Phrase

kia kaha

1. be strong (used as an affirmation or motto)
2. A term of comfort or solace (equivalent of the English phrase "be strong, my thoughts are with you").
3. An interjection during a speech to indicate support or approval (similar to "hear, hear!").

References

• Winifred Bauer, 1997. The Reed Reference Grammar of Māori. Reed, page 99.