This is an Okinawan word. It means 'Welcome!' or 'Come in!'. It is like 'いらっしゃいませ' or 'ようこそ' in standard Japanese.
めんそーれPrimary
This is an Okinawan word. It means 'Welcome!' or 'Come in!'. It is like 'いらっしゃいませ' or 'ようこそ' in standard Japanese.
めんそーれ！沖縄の美しい海へ！
Welcome! To the beautiful seas of Okinawa!
去年沖縄を旅行した時、空港で「めんそーれ」という看板に迎えられました。
When I traveled to Okinawa last year, I was greeted by a sign at the airport that said 'Mensoore'.
「おじゃまします」「あら、よく来たね。さあ、めんそーれ。」
Excuse me for intruding.' 'Oh, I'm glad you came. Come on in, welcome!'
店の入り口で、おばあが「めんそーれ」と笑顔で声をかけてくれた。
At the entrance to the shop, an old woman called out 'Welcome!' with a smile.
沖縄料理店に行くと、いつも「めんそーれ！」という元気な声が聞こえてくる。
Whenever I go to an Okinawan restaurant, I always hear a cheerful 'Mensoore!'.
This word is very special in Okinawa. It shows a deep, warm feeling. It is like saying, 'We are happy you are here.' It means people want to treat you like family.
This word means 'welcome'. It is different from 'いらっしゃいませ' (irasshaimase) and 'ようこそ' (youkoso). Those are standard Japanese. This word is only used in Okinawa. It is also not 'はいさい / はいたい' (haisai / haitai). That word means 'hello' in Okinawan. You use it when you meet someone.
Don't use this when you are not in Okinawa. For example, don't say it in Tokyo. This word is only for Okinawa. Or for things about Okinawa.
More formal alternatives(1)
Less formal alternatives(1)
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