Translation guide
A Māori performance art involving swinging tethered weights, often used in kapa haka. In Japanese contexts, it may refer to the object itself or the activity, but there is no direct equivalent. This guide covers how to describe poi in Japanese.
Referring to the physical poi, a ball on a string used in Māori performance.
The loanword 'poi' is commonly used in Japanese to refer to the object, especially in contexts like Māori culture or poi spinning.
彼女はポイを回している。
She is spinning poi.
Sometimes used to clarify it's a ball, especially in non-Māori contexts like fire dancing or juggling.
ファイヤーポイボールを使ったパフォーマンス。
A performance using fire poi balls.
Specifies it's the Māori poi, distinguishing from other swinging toys.
マオリのポイは伝統的な楽器です。
The Māori poi is a traditional instrument.
Referring to the act of swinging poi, as a performance or hobby.
Literally 'poi spinning', the most natural way to describe the activity.
ポイ回しを習っています。
I'm learning poi spinning.
A general phrase meaning 'to do poi', similar to 'play poi'.
週末に公園でポイをするのが好きです。
I like doing poi in the park on weekends.
Used for formal performances, especially in kapa haka or stage shows.
ポイパフォーマンスは観客を魅了した。
The poi performance captivated the audience.
Explaining poi as part of Māori culture, often in educational or travel contexts.
Emphasizes the traditional aspect, useful when introducing the cultural background.
マオリの伝統的なポイは、歌や踊りと共に演じられます。
Traditional Māori poi is performed with songs and dances.
Specifically refers to poi within kapa haka, the Māori performing arts.
カパハカのポイはリズミカルで美しい。
The poi in kapa haka is rhythmic and beautiful.
There is no native Japanese word for poi. Using descriptive phrases like '紐付きのボール' (ball on a string) may cause confusion, as it's not a common object. Stick to the loanword ポイ.
紐付きのボールを回す
Swing a ball on a string
If you're talking about fire poi or flow arts, you can use ファイヤーポイ (fire poi) or フローポイ (flow poi). For traditional Māori poi, always specify マオリの to show respect for the culture.