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B1 Noun #33 よく出る 14分で読める

mele

上位33

The word 'mele' comes from Hawaii. It means a song or a chant. In Hawaii, people use 'mele' to tell stories about their history and their family. You might know the song 'Mele Kalikimaka,' which means 'Merry Christmas.' In that song, 'mele' is like the word 'merry' or 'song.' When you see people dancing the hula, they are often dancing to a mele. It is a very important word for the people of Hawaii because it helps them remember their past. It is a simple word to say: 'meh-leh.' Think of it as a special kind of song that is also a story. You can use it when you talk about Hawaiian music or culture. For example, 'I heard a beautiful mele today.'

In Hawaii, a 'mele' is more than just a song; it is a way to keep history alive. Long ago, people in Hawaii did not write things down. Instead, they used 'mele' (chants and poems) to remember important things like the names of their kings and how the islands were made. There are different kinds of mele. Some are just for singing, and some are for dancing hula. When you use this word, you are talking about traditional Hawaiian music. It is a noun. You can say 'The kumu (teacher) taught us a new mele.' It is important to pronounce it correctly as 'meh-leh.' If you go to a festival in Hawaii, you will hear many meles being performed. It is a word that shows respect for Hawaiian traditions.

A 'mele' is a traditional Hawaiian chant, song, or poem. It is a central part of Hawaiian culture because it was the primary method of recording history, genealogy, and mythology before a written language existed. Mele are often categorized into two types: 'mele oli' (chants without dance) and 'mele hula' (chants with dance). The word is frequently used in discussions about Hawaiian heritage, music, and the arts. For example, you might read about a 'mele inoa,' which is a chant specifically created to honor someone's name. When using 'mele' in English, it's important to understand its cultural weight—it's not just entertainment; it's a sacred record. You will often hear it at cultural ceremonies or hula competitions like the Merrie Monarch Festival.

The term 'mele' refers to a sophisticated form of Hawaiian oral literature that encompasses chants, songs, and poems. In a B2 context, it's important to recognize that mele are characterized by 'kaona,' or layered metaphorical meanings. A single mele might describe a landscape while simultaneously referencing a historical event or a romantic relationship. Mele are essential to the practice of hula, as the dance serves to illustrate the words of the chant. Scholars often study mele to gain insights into pre-contact Hawaiian society, navigation, and religious beliefs. When using the word, you should be aware of its distinction from 'hīmeni' (Western-style hymns) and its role as a vessel for 'mana' (spiritual power). It is a key term in ethnomusicology and Pacific studies.

In advanced discourse, 'mele' is understood as a complex system of oral documentation and artistic expression unique to Hawaii. It represents a poetic tradition where sound, rhythm, and imagery are meticulously crafted to preserve the 'moʻolelo' (stories/history) of the nation. C1 learners should appreciate the technical variety of mele, such as 'mele pule' (prayers), 'mele kanikau' (dirges), and 'mele koʻihonua' (genealogical chants). The performance of a mele involves specific vocal techniques like 'iʻi' (a vibrato) and 'haʻi' (a break in the voice), which convey deep emotion and spiritual connection. In academic writing, 'mele' is often discussed in the context of indigenous epistemology—how knowledge is constructed and transmitted within a specific culture. It is a word that demands an understanding of the intersection between aesthetics, politics, and spirituality.

At the C2 level, 'mele' is recognized as the quintessential medium of Hawaiian intellectual and spiritual life. It is an intricate linguistic and performative art form that serves as a repository for the ontological and cosmological frameworks of the Hawaiian people. The study of mele involves deconstructing 'kaona' (veiled meanings) and understanding the 'wahi pana' (sacred places) mentioned within the texts. C2 speakers should be able to discuss the role of mele in the Hawaiian Renaissance—a period of cultural revitalization starting in the 1970s—and how it continues to be a tool for political resistance and identity affirmation. The word 'mele' encapsulates the totality of the Hawaiian experience, from the primordial 'Kumulipo' creation chant to modern compositions that address contemporary social issues, all while maintaining a strict adherence to traditional poetic structures.

練習する例文メモとヒント

mele 30秒で

Mele is a Hawaiian term for a chant, song, or poem that preserves history and culture.
It is a vital part of the oral tradition, used to pass down knowledge before writing existed.
Mele are often performed alongside hula dance or during sacred Hawaiian ceremonies and rituals.
The word carries deep spiritual weight and often contains hidden metaphorical meanings known as kaona.

The word mele is a profound and multi-faceted term originating from the Hawaiian language, serving as a cornerstone of the archipelago's rich cultural and oral traditions. At its most fundamental level, a mele is a chant, song, or poem. However, to describe it simply as a 'song' in the Western sense would be to overlook its immense spiritual and historical weight. In Hawaiian culture, mele is the primary vehicle for preserving the collective memory of the people, encompassing everything from the creation of the islands to the intricate genealogies of the aliʻi (royalty). It is the breath of the ancestors captured in rhythmic speech and melody. When you encounter this word, you are looking at a linguistic bridge that connects the physical world with the realm of the divine and the historical past.

Linguistic Origin: Derived from the Proto-Polynesian root word for 'singing' or 'chanting,' the Hawaiian 'mele' has evolved to represent a specific literary and musical form unique to the islands.
Cultural Function: Mele serves as a living archive. Before the introduction of a written language, these chants were the only way to ensure that history, laws, and religious practices were passed down accurately through generations.

People use the word mele most frequently in the context of Hawaiian cultural practices, such as hula. There are two main categories of performance: mele oli, which are chants performed without musical instruments and usually by a single person, and mele hula, which are chants accompanied by dance and often rhythmic instruments like the ipu (gourd drum) or pahu (sharkskin drum). In modern English usage, especially within Hawaii or among ethnomusicologists, 'mele' is used to distinguish traditional Hawaiian compositions from contemporary 'songs' (which might be called 'hīmeni' if they are hymns or Western-style songs).

The kumu hula began the ceremony by reciting a powerful mele that honored the goddess Pele.

The significance of a mele lies in its 'kaona' or hidden meaning. Hawaiian poetry is famous for its layers of metaphor. A mele describing a beautiful flower might actually be a tribute to a beloved child, or a description of a rainstorm might be a veiled reference to a historical battle. Therefore, using the word 'mele' implies a depth of meaning that goes beyond the surface-level lyrics. It suggests a composition that requires careful interpretation and respect for the tradition from which it springs.

In contemporary settings, you will hear 'mele' used during the Merrie Monarch Festival, the world's most prestigious hula competition, or during 'Mele Kalikimaka' (Merry Christmas), where the word is used to translate 'Merry' but also refers to the festive songs of the season. Understanding 'mele' is essential for anyone interested in Polynesian studies, linguistics, or the preservation of indigenous knowledge systems. It is not just a word; it is a repository of a nation's soul.

Scholars spent years translating the ancient mele to better understand the navigational techniques of early voyagers.

Mele Oli: Unaccompanied chants, often used for prayers, protocols, or personal expressions of grief or joy.

The elder's mele echoed through the valley, signaling the start of the harvest festival.

Using the word mele correctly requires an understanding of its role as a noun that describes a specific cultural artifact. In English sentences, it functions much like the words 'ballad' or 'epic,' but with a distinct geographical and cultural anchor. Because it is a loanword, it is often italicized in formal writing to indicate its foreign origin, although in contexts where Hawaiian culture is the primary subject, it is frequently treated as a standard part of the vocabulary. You will often see it paired with verbs like 'chant,' 'compose,' 'perform,' or 'recite.'

As a Subject: The mele tells the story of the great chief's journey across the Pacific.
As an Object: The students spent the afternoon memorizing a sacred mele for the upcoming graduation.

One of the most common ways to use 'mele' is to describe the content or purpose of the chant. For instance, a 'mele inoa' is a name chant composed to honor a person, while a 'mele pule' is a prayer chant. In English, we might say, 'The family commissioned a mele inoa for the newborn baby.' This usage highlights the functional nature of the word; it is not just art for art's sake, but a tool for social and spiritual connection. When discussing the technical aspects of a mele, you might mention its 'kaona' (hidden meaning) or its 'rhythm,' which is often dictated by the natural cadence of the Hawaiian language.

During the royal funeral, the high priest performed a haunting mele kanikau to express the nation's collective grief.

It is also important to distinguish between the written text of a mele and its performance. While a mele can be written down in books or on archives, its 'true' form is considered to be the oral performance. Therefore, sentences like 'I read the mele in a textbook' are grammatically correct but culturally incomplete. A more nuanced sentence would be, 'I studied the text of the mele to prepare for the live performance.' This acknowledges that the word encompasses both the lyrical content and the vocal delivery.

Furthermore, 'mele' is frequently used in compound phrases that have entered the broader English lexicon within Hawaii. 'Mele Kalikimaka' is the most famous example, where 'mele' acts as a translation for 'merry' or 'joyous song.' However, in most academic or cultural discussions, the word retains its specific meaning as a traditional Hawaiian composition. If you are writing about music history, you might compare a mele to a 'psalm' or an 'ode' to help your audience understand its reverent and commemorative nature.

The composer integrated elements of traditional mele into his modern orchestral symphony.

In Descriptive Phrases: An 'ancient mele,' a 'sacred mele,' or a 'haunting mele' are all common ways to add emotional weight to the noun.

Every morning, the students gather to chant a mele that asks for permission to enter the forest.

The word mele is most vibrantly heard in the state of Hawaii, but its reach extends to any community where the Hawaiian diaspora or hula practitioners reside. If you visit Hawaii, you will encounter the word in various settings, ranging from the highly formal to the everyday. One of the most prominent places to hear 'mele' discussed is at a hula hālau (hula school). Here, the kumu hula (teacher) will use the word constantly, as the dance of hula is essentially a visual interpretation of the mele. Without the mele, there is no hula; the words are the foundation upon which the movements are built.

Cultural Festivals: At events like the Merrie Monarch Festival in Hilo, announcers and commentators use 'mele' to describe the performances, explaining the history and lineage of each chant.
Educational Institutions: In Hawaiian Immersion schools and University of Hawaii courses, 'mele' is studied as a literary form, much like Shakespearean sonnets or Greek epics are studied in other contexts.

Beyond the islands, you will hear 'mele' in the world of ethnomusicology. Scholars who study the music of indigenous peoples often use 'mele' to categorize the unique vocal styles of Hawaii, such as the 'oli' (chanting without dance). You might hear it in a documentary about Pacific navigation, where the narrator explains how sailors used mele to memorize the positions of stars and the patterns of ocean currents. In this context, 'mele' is presented as a sophisticated mnemonic device that allowed ancient people to travel thousands of miles across open water without modern instruments.

'Listen closely to the mele,' the guide said, 'for it contains the names of every island our ancestors discovered.'

In the realm of popular culture, the word is most famously heard in the song 'Mele Kalikimaka,' written by Robert Alex Anderson in 1949 and popularized by Bing Crosby. While this is a modern, Westernized use of the word, it has made 'mele' a household term for many people around the world during the holiday season. However, it's important to note that in this specific phrase, 'mele' is a transliteration of the English word 'merry,' which happened because the Hawaiian language does not have an 'r' sound. This is a unique linguistic quirk where a traditional word was repurposed to fit a foreign concept.

You will also find 'mele' in literature and academic journals. Writers like Mary Kawena Pukui, who was a renowned Hawaiian scholar, used the word extensively in her translations and collections of Hawaiian folklore. In these texts, 'mele' is treated as a vital piece of intellectual property, belonging to specific families or lineages. Hearing or reading the word in these contexts emphasizes its role as a vessel for 'mana' (spiritual power). To perform a mele is to invoke the power of the things described within it.

The radio station dedicated a special segment to the mele of the 19th-century Hawaiian monarchy.

Modern Media: Podcasts focusing on indigenous rights or Pacific history often feature experts who analyze the political messages hidden within historical mele.

The museum exhibit featured a recording of a mele that had not been heard in public for over fifty years.

When using the word mele, the most frequent errors involve pronunciation, oversimplification, and cultural misappropriation. Because the word looks simple to English speakers, there is a tendency to apply English phonetic rules to it, which can lead to significant misunderstandings. Furthermore, treating 'mele' as a direct synonym for 'song' ignores the specific cultural protocols and historical depth that the word carries in its native context.

Pronunciation Errors: Many people mistakenly pronounce it as 'meal' (like food) or 'may-lay' (like a confused fight/melee). The correct pronunciation is 'meh-leh,' with two short 'e' sounds.
Oversimplification: Calling a sacred chant a 'mele' is correct, but calling a random pop song a 'mele' (unless it is in the Hawaiian language and follows traditional structures) can be seen as inaccurate or even disrespectful.

Another common mistake is failing to recognize the different types of mele. For example, using 'mele' to describe a dance without acknowledging that the dance is actually 'hula' and the chant is the 'mele.' While they are inextricably linked, they are distinct concepts. A person might say, 'I liked that mele dance,' which is redundant and slightly confused. It would be more accurate to say, 'I liked the hula performed to that mele.'

Incorrect: 'The band played a beautiful mele on their electric guitars.' (Unless the composition follows traditional Hawaiian structures, 'song' or 'hīmeni' is usually more appropriate).

Contextual errors also occur when people use 'mele' in a way that ignores its spiritual significance. In Hawaiian culture, some mele are considered 'kapu' (sacred or restricted) and are only meant to be performed by certain people or at certain times. Using the word 'mele' to describe a casual or irreverent parody of Hawaiian culture is a significant social faux pas. It is important to treat the word with the same respect you would accord to terms like 'liturgy' or 'national anthem.'

Finally, there is the 'Mele Kalikimaka' confusion. Because this phrase is so famous, some people think 'mele' always means 'merry.' In fact, 'mele' only means 'merry' in that specific, translated context. If you were to say 'I am feeling very mele today' to mean 'I am feeling very merry,' a Hawaiian speaker would likely be confused, as you are essentially saying 'I am feeling very chant today.' It is vital to understand that 'mele' is primarily a noun (a thing) rather than an adjective (a feeling).

Correct: 'The kumu explained the historical context of the mele before the students began to chant.'

Pluralization Mistake: Avoid saying 'a meles.' Like any English noun, it should be 'a mele' (singular) or 'meles' (plural). In a Hawaiian context, 'nā mele' is the correct plural form.

Incorrect: 'I heard a mele on the radio that sounded like a pop song.' (Traditional mele are rarely played as standard pop music on mainstream radio).

While mele is a unique term with no exact equivalent in English, there are several words that can be used to describe similar concepts depending on the context. Understanding these alternatives helps to triangulate the meaning of 'mele' and allows for more precise communication when the specific Hawaiian term might not be understood by the audience. The most common alternatives include 'chant,' 'song,' 'poem,' and 'hymn,' but each carries a slightly different connotation.

Chant: This is the closest English word for 'mele oli.' It suggests a rhythmic, often repetitive vocal performance that is more speech-like than melodic. However, 'chant' in English can sometimes imply something monotonous, whereas a mele can be incredibly dynamic and emotionally varied.
Song: This is the most general alternative. While all mele are songs in a broad sense, 'song' often implies a Western musical structure (verse-chorus-bridge) and instrumental accompaniment, which traditional mele may not have.

In a literary context, 'poem' is a strong alternative. Since mele were the primary form of literature in pre-contact Hawaii, they share many characteristics with Western poetry, such as metaphor, meter, and alliteration. However, 'poem' usually implies a written work intended to be read, while 'mele' is inherently oral and performative. Another interesting comparison is 'epic.' Just as the 'Iliad' or 'Beowulf' are epic poems that preserve the history of a people, many long mele (like the Kumulipo, the Hawaiian creation chant) serve the same function for the Hawaiian people.

While some might call it a simple chant, the mele is actually a complex epic poem that takes hours to recite.

For religious contexts, 'hymn' or 'psalm' might be used. When a mele is performed as a prayer (mele pule), it functions exactly like a hymn in a Christian service. In fact, when Christian missionaries arrived in Hawaii, they used the word 'hīmeni' (a transliteration of 'hymn') to distinguish Christian songs from traditional 'mele.' This distinction remains important today: 'mele' usually refers to indigenous Hawaiian compositions, while 'hīmeni' refers to Western-style religious songs. Another term often confused with mele is 'oli,' but as discussed, 'oli' is actually a *type* of mele (one performed without dance).

In the table below, we compare 'mele' with other similar terms to highlight the nuances of its meaning. Notice how 'mele' bridges the gap between music and literature, history and spirituality.

Mele vs. Hīmeni: Mele is traditional and indigenous; Hīmeni is Western-influenced and often religious.
Mele vs. Ode: Both are used to praise or honor someone, but a mele is usually performed orally with specific cultural protocols.

The scholar argued that the mele should be studied with the same rigor as the Greek classics.

How Formal Is It?

フォーマル

ニュートラル

カジュアル

Child friendly

スラング

豆知識

In the 19th century, the word 'mele' was so versatile that it was used to translate the concept of 'merry' in 'Merry Christmas' (Mele Kalikimaka) because the Hawaiian language lacked an 'r' sound and 'mele' was the closest phonetic and conceptual match.

発音ガイド

UK /ˈmɛleɪ/

US /ˈmɛleɪ/

Primary stress on the first syllable: ME-le.

韻が合う語

belly jelly deli telly smelly Machiavelli vermicelli Shelley

よくある間違い

Pronouncing it as 'meal' (one syllable).
Pronouncing it as 'may-lay' (rhyming with 'pay').
Pronouncing it as 'mee-lee' (rhyming with 'freely').
Confusing it with the English word 'melee' (a fight).
Failing to pronounce both 'e' sounds clearly.

難易度

読解 3/5

Easy to read, but requires context to understand the depth.

ライティング 4/5

Spelling is easy, but using it correctly in cultural contexts is harder.

スピーキング 5/5

Pronunciation is often missed by non-native speakers.

リスニング 4/5

Can be confused with 'melee' or 'meal' if not listening carefully.

次に学ぶべきこと

前提知識

song chant culture tradition Hawaii

次に学ぶ

hula aloha mana kahiko auana

上級

kaona genealogy ethnomusicology indigenous epistemology

知っておくべき文法

Loanword Pluralization

In English, we add 's' (meles), but in the source language, the plural might be different (nā mele).

Italicization of Foreign Terms

The *mele* was performed with great dignity.

Noun as Adjective (Attributive Noun)

The *mele* performance was spectacular.

Definite Article Usage with Unique Cultural Items

We listened to *the* mele (referring to a specific, known chant).

Appositive Phrases for Definition

The mele, a traditional Hawaiian chant, was very long.

レベル別の例文

I like this Hawaiian mele.

I like this Hawaiian song.

Simple subject-verb-object structure.

The mele is very beautiful.

The song is very beautiful.

Using 'mele' as a singular noun.

Can you sing a mele?

Can you sing a song?

Interrogative sentence with a modal verb.

We learned a new mele today.

We learned a new song today.

Past tense of 'learn'.

This mele tells a story.

This song tells a story.

Third-person singular verb 'tells'.

Listen to the mele.

Listen to the song.

Imperative sentence.

My teacher knows many meles.

My teacher knows many songs.

Pluralizing 'mele' with an 's'.

Mele means song in Hawaii.

Defining a word using 'means'.

The hula dancers moved to the rhythm of the mele.

The dancers moved to the song's beat.

Prepositional phrase 'to the rhythm of'.

A mele can be a chant or a poem.

Using 'can be' to show possibilities.

They performed a mele to honor the king.

They performed a song to honor the king.

Infinitive of purpose 'to honor'.

Do you know the words to this mele?

Do you know the lyrics of this song?

Common phrase 'words to a [song/mele]'.

The mele was passed down through generations.

The song was kept for many years.

Passive voice 'was passed down'.

Every mele has a special meaning.

Every song has a special meaning.

Using 'every' with a singular noun.

The kumu hula explained the mele to us.

The teacher explained the song to us.

Direct and indirect objects.

I want to record this traditional mele.

I want to record this old song.

Infinitive phrase 'to record'.

The mele oli is performed without any musical instruments.

The chant is done without instruments.

Using 'mele oli' as a specific compound noun.

She composed a mele to celebrate her daughter's birth.

She wrote a chant for her daughter.

Verb 'composed' used for artistic creation.

Many meles contain hidden meanings called kaona.

Many songs have secret meanings.

Introducing technical terms with 'called'.

The historian studied the mele to find clues about the past.

The historian looked at the song for history.

Complex sentence with an infinitive of purpose.

It is important to respect the sacred nature of the mele.

We must respect the holy song.

Introductory 'It is' construction.

The festival features various types of mele and hula.

The festival shows different songs and dances.

Verb 'features' used for events.

He chanted the mele with great emotion and power.

He sang the chant with feeling.

Prepositional phrases for manner.

This mele preserves the genealogy of the royal family.

This song keeps the family tree.

Present simple for a factual statement.

The intricate metaphors within the mele require deep cultural knowledge to interpret.

The complex meanings need cultural understanding.

Subject-verb agreement with a complex subject.

During the ceremony, the kumu recited a mele pule to ask for a blessing.

The teacher said a prayer chant for a blessing.

Specific term 'mele pule' (prayer chant).

The recording captures the unique vocal techniques used in traditional mele.

The tape has the special singing styles.

Relative clause 'used in...'.

Scholars argue that the mele is a primary source for Hawaiian history.

Experts say the song is a history source.

Noun clause 'that the mele is...'.

The mele hula provides the narrative framework for the dance movements.

The chant gives the story for the dance.

Technical vocabulary 'narrative framework'.

Each stanza of the mele was carefully crafted to include multiple layers of meaning.

Every part of the song was made with many meanings.

Passive voice with 'carefully crafted'.

The community gathered to hear the elder perform a mele kanikau.

The people met to hear a funeral chant.

Specific term 'mele kanikau' (dirge/lament).

Modern composers are finding ways to integrate traditional mele into contemporary music.

New musicians are mixing old chants with new songs.

Present continuous with 'finding ways to'.

The preservation of mele is vital for the continuity of Hawaiian indigenous knowledge.

Keeping songs is key for native knowledge.

Abstract nouns 'preservation' and 'continuity'.

Through the analysis of mele, researchers can reconstruct ancient voyaging routes.

By studying songs, we find old sea paths.

Prepositional phrase 'Through the analysis of'.

The performer's mastery of 'i'i' added a profound resonance to the mele.

The singer's skill made the song powerful.

Possessive 'performer's mastery'.

The mele serves as an ontological bridge between the human and divine realms.

The song connects people and gods.

Academic vocabulary 'ontological bridge'.

Critics praised the way the poet utilized traditional mele structures in her modern verse.

Critics liked how she used old song forms in new poems.

Complex sentence with a relative clause.

The sheer volume of memorized mele required for a kumu hula is staggering.

The amount of songs a teacher must know is huge.

Adjective 'staggering' for emphasis.

The mele's kaona often functions as a form of political subtext.

The song's hidden meaning is often political.

Possessive 'mele's'.

Evoking the power of the land, the mele re-established the community's connection to their 'āina.

Calling the land's power, the song reconnected the people.

Participle phrase 'Evoking the power...'.

The Kumulipo is perhaps the most celebrated mele ko'ihonua in the Hawaiian canon.

The Kumulipo is the most famous genealogy chant.

Superlative 'most celebrated' and specific term 'canon'.

To perform a mele is to engage in a performative act of historical reclamation.

Singing a chant is taking back history.

Infinitive as subject 'To perform... is to engage'.

The nuanced phonology of the mele reflects the environmental sounds of the Hawaiian landscape.

The song's sounds mimic the island's nature.

Linguistic term 'phonology'.

The decolonization of Hawaiian history relies heavily on the re-interpretation of suppressed mele.

Fixing history needs us to look at hidden songs.

Noun 'decolonization' and adverb 'heavily'.

The mele's efficacy is predicated on the performer's spiritual alignment and genealogical authority.

The song works if the singer is spiritual and has the right family.

Passive construction 'is predicated on'.

The structural complexity of the mele belies its seemingly simple repetitive nature.

The song is more complex than it sounds.

Verb 'belies' meaning to contradict.

In the absence of written records, the mele functioned as the primary archival repository for the nation.

Without writing, the song was the main archive.

Prepositional phrase 'In the absence of'.

The contemporary resurgence of mele composition signifies a robust cultural sovereignty.

New songs show the culture is strong and independent.

Noun 'resurgence' and 'sovereignty'.

よく使う組み合わせ

chant a mele

traditional mele

sacred mele

mele hula

mele oli

compose a mele

ancient mele

recite a mele

mele inoa

layers of mele

よく使うフレーズ

Mele Kalikimaka

Nā mele

Mele pule

Mele inoa

Mele kanikau

Mele ma'i

Mele pana

Mele ho'oipoipo

Mele ko'ihonua

Haku mele

よく混同される語

mele vs melee

A French-derived word meaning a confused fight or scuffle. Pronounced 'may-lay'.

mele vs meal

An English word for food eaten at a specific time. Pronounced 'meel'.

mele vs hīmeni

A Hawaiian word for Western-style hymns or songs, as opposed to traditional mele.

慣用句と表現

"To have a mele in one's heart"

To be full of joy or to be deeply connected to one's culture.

Even in difficult times, she always had a mele in her heart.

poetic

"The mele never ends"

Refers to the continuity of history and tradition.

Our ancestors are gone, but the mele never ends.

philosophical

"To weave a mele"

To carefully compose a story or song with many layers.

The author wove a mele of words that captivated the audience.

literary

"Breath of the mele"

The life force or spirit behind a performance.

You must feel the breath of the mele before you start to dance.

spiritual

"A mele for every wind"

Having a song or story for every occasion.

The old fisherman had a mele for every wind that blew.

informal

"Lost in the mele"

Being deeply absorbed in the music or the story.

The audience was completely lost in the mele.

neutral

"To carry the mele"

To be responsible for preserving a specific tradition or story.

It is your turn to carry the mele for our family.

formal

"A mele of the land"

A person who deeply represents their home culture.

He is truly a mele of the land.

poetic

"Echoes of the mele"

The lasting influence of traditional teachings.

We still hear the echoes of the mele in our modern laws.

academic

"To find your mele"

To find your purpose or your voice.

It takes time to find your mele in this world.

informal

間違えやすい

mele vs Oli

Both refer to Hawaiian chanting.

Oli is a specific *type* of mele performed without dance or instruments. Mele is the general term.

The kumu performed an oli, which is a type of mele.

mele vs Hula

They are always seen together.

Hula is the dance; mele is the chant or song that the dance illustrates.

The hula was beautiful, but the mele was even more powerful.

mele vs Kaona

Often discussed alongside mele.

Kaona is the *hidden meaning* within a mele, not the mele itself.

To understand the mele, you must find its kaona.

mele vs Hīmeni

Both mean song.

Hīmeni is for Western/Christian songs; mele is for traditional Hawaiian ones.

We sang a hīmeni at church and a mele at the festival.

mele vs Mo'olelo

Both involve stories.

Mo'olelo is a story or history in general; a mele is a story specifically in the form of a chant or song.

The mo'olelo of the island was preserved in a sacred mele.

文型パターン

I like [mele].

I like this mele.

The [mele] is [adjective].

The mele is beautiful.

They performed a [mele] to [verb].

They performed a mele to welcome the guests.

The [mele] contains [noun].

The mele contains many metaphors.

By studying the [mele], we can [verb].

By studying the mele, we can understand the history.

The [mele] serves as a [noun] for [noun].

The mele serves as a repository for cultural knowledge.

This [mele] was passed down by [noun].

This mele was passed down by my grandfather.

The [mele] is characterized by [noun].

The mele is characterized by its use of kaona.

語族

名詞

動詞

形容詞

使い方

frequency

High in Hawaii and ethnomusicology; low in general global English.

よくある間違い

Using 'mele' for any song. → Using 'mele' for traditional Hawaiian chants/songs.
It is a culturally specific term and shouldn't be used for pop music from other cultures.
Pronouncing it 'may-lay'. → 'meh-leh'
Applying English 'long a' sounds to Hawaiian vowels is a common error.
Thinking 'mele' only means 'merry'. → Understanding 'mele' means 'song/chant'.
The 'merry' meaning is only found in the specific translation of 'Merry Christmas'.
Confusing 'mele' with 'hula'. → Distinguishing the chant from the dance.
While they go together, they are separate artistic forms.
Spelling it 'melee'. → 'mele'
'Melee' is a completely different word meaning a fight.

ヒント

Respect the Source

Always remember that a mele is often considered sacred. If you are at a performance, listen quietly and wait until the end to applaud, or follow the lead of the local audience.

Vowel Sounds

In Hawaiian, vowels are consistent. The 'e' in mele will always sound like the 'e' in 'red,' never like the 'ee' in 'see.'

Use in Essays

When writing about Hawaiian history, use 'mele' to refer to oral records. This shows a higher level of academic precision than just using the word 'story.'

Mele and Hula

If you are learning hula, spend time studying the mele first. The movements make much more sense once you understand the words and their kaona.

Visiting Hawaii

You will see the word 'mele' on many signs and programs. Knowing it means 'song' or 'chant' will help you navigate cultural events.

Mele Kalikimaka

When you sing this song, remember that 'mele' is used here as a clever translation for 'merry,' but its deeper meaning is always tied to Hawaiian chanting.

Vocal Nuance

Listen for the 'i'i' (vibrato) in traditional mele. It is a sign of a highly skilled chanter and adds emotional depth to the performance.

Italics

In formal English writing, it is standard practice to italicize 'mele' because it is a loanword from another language.

Mnemonic

Associate 'Mele' with 'Memory.' Mele is how the Hawaiian people kept their memories alive.

Conversation

Using the word 'mele' correctly when talking to people from Hawaii shows that you have taken the time to learn about their culture.

暗記しよう

記憶術

Think of a 'Melody' from 'Hawaii' – ME-LE. It's a melody that tells a story.

視覚的連想

Imagine a hula dancer on a beach, but instead of just dancing, she is holding a scroll of poetry that turns into musical notes.

Word Web

Song Chant Poem Hawaii Hula History Culture Oral Tradition

チャレンジ

Try to use the word 'mele' in a sentence that describes a story you want to tell through music.

語源

The word 'mele' is of Hawaiian origin, descending from Proto-Polynesian roots. In many Polynesian languages, related words refer to singing, chanting, or rhythmic speech.

元の意味： A song, chant, or poem; rhythmic vocalization.

Austronesian -> Malayo-Polynesian -> Oceanic -> Polynesian -> Hawaiian.

文化的な背景

Avoid using 'mele' to describe non-Hawaiian songs. Be respectful of the spiritual significance of traditional chants.

In the US, 'mele' is most commonly known through the Christmas song, but in academic and artistic circles, it is respected as a technical term for Hawaiian chant.

'Mele Kalikimaka' (song by Bing Crosby) The Kumulipo (creation chant) Merrie Monarch Festival (hula competition)

実生活で練習する

実際の使用場面

Music Class

What is the rhythm of this mele?
Who composed this mele?
Is this a mele oli or mele hula?
Listen to the vocal techniques.

Travel in Hawaii

Where can I hear traditional mele?
Is it okay to record the mele?
What does this mele mean?
Thank you for sharing that mele.

History Studies

The mele records the lineage of kings.
This mele describes the eruption of 1881.
How does the mele differ from written history?
The kaona in the mele is very complex.

Hula Practice

Follow the words of the mele.
Your movements should reflect the mele.
Memorize the mele before the next class.
The mele is the foundation of the dance.

Holiday Season

Mele Kalikimaka to you!
Let's sing the Christmas mele.
Do you know the Hawaiian words to the song?
It's a festive mele.

会話のきっかけ

"Have you ever heard a traditional Hawaiian mele performed live?"

"What do you think is the most interesting part of oral traditions like the mele?"

"Did you know that 'Mele Kalikimaka' actually uses the word for song to mean 'merry'?"

"If you were to compose a mele about your life, what story would it tell?"

"How do you think a mele helps a culture stay connected to its past?"

日記のテーマ

Write about a song or poem from your own culture that functions like a mele by preserving history.

Imagine you are a haku mele (composer). Describe the metaphors you would use to describe your hometown.

Reflect on the importance of oral traditions. What would be lost if we only relied on written books?

Describe the feeling of listening to a chant in a language you don't fully understand.

How can modern music honor traditional forms like the mele without being disrespectful?

よくある質問

10 問

In its primary and correct cultural context, yes. It refers specifically to Hawaiian oral traditions. While 'Mele Kalikimaka' uses it to mean 'merry,' this is a specific transliteration and not the word's general meaning.

It is pronounced 'meh-leh.' Both syllables have a short 'e' sound, like in the word 'bed.' It is not 'may-lay' or 'mealy.'

A mele is part of an indigenous oral tradition that often carries historical, genealogical, or spiritual weight. It may not follow Western musical structures like verses and choruses.

Yes, many mele have been transcribed into books and archives, but their primary form is considered to be the oral performance.

Kaona refers to the hidden or metaphorical meanings within the lyrics. A mele about a flower might actually be about a person or a historical event.

Yes, there are many types, including 'mele oli' (unaccompanied chant), 'mele hula' (chant for dance), and 'mele pule' (prayer chant).

It is primarily a noun (a song/chant). To say 'to sing,' you would use other Hawaiian words, though in English you can 'perform a mele.'

Before Hawaii had a written language, mele were the only way to record and pass down history, laws, and family lineages.

No, it is not disrespectful to use the word, but it is important to use it correctly and with respect for the culture it comes from.

You can hear them at hula competitions like the Merrie Monarch Festival, at Hawaiian cultural centers, or in recordings of traditional Hawaiian music.