Context Matters:
* Literal translation: You could use the literal translation of "carrying a child" - "e whakawhānau ana". This is grammatically correct but not commonly used.
* Focus on the physical state: "hapu" means "pregnant" but is also used for "swollen" or "large". So, you'd need context to understand it as "pregnant".
* Focus on the experience: You could use phrases like:
* "E whānau ana" (giving birth) - implies the pregnancy is nearing the end.
* "E tatari ana" (waiting) - emphasizes the anticipation of the child's arrival.
Best Option:
It's best to use a phrase that describes the situation more specifically, like "e tatari ana kia whānau tō tamaiti" (waiting for your child to be born).
Example:
Instead of saying "She is pregnant," you could say:
* "E tatari ana ia kia whānau tōna tamaiti." (She is waiting for her child to be born.)
* "E hapu ana ia." (She is pregnant, but this might need context.)
Remember that Māori is a beautiful and nuanced language. When in doubt, it's always best to consult a Māori speaker to get the most accurate and culturally appropriate translation.