ສາທູ
[sah-tuu]
amen, good, yes Phrase
* Note — Lao sentences and phrases are not typically spaced out by syllables. But, this is helpful for recognizing where syllables start and end.
Tips:
ສາທູ doesn’t have a real definition, but it is something along the lines of “amen” because it is often said in a religious setting or context. Often said with a nop (prayer hands).
Satu is a Pali word of Sanskrit origin (Pali is the sacred language of Theravada Buddhism, the largest religion practiced by Lao people). In Sanskrit, it describes a more mystical person or entity. But in Pali, it’s more of a moral attitude.
Satu repeated three times refers to the three aspects: a disciplined body, speech, and mind.
Tone Breakdown
ສາ [sah] — this syllable has a high-class consonant and a long vowel. As a result, this produces a rising tone.
ທູ [tuu] — this syllable has a low-class consonant and a long vowel. As a result, this produces a high.