Local Lingo of Hawaii | Aaron Symank

In previous centuries, immigrants from all over the world flowed into Hawaii to work on the sugar plantations. Over time, the multitude of languages blended together into “Hawaiian pidgin”. To prepare yourself for your Hawaiian vacation, here’s a list of Hawaiian Pidgin words that you may hear while visiting Hawaii!

Aloha

This well-known word can mean hello, goodbye, affection, graciousness or kindness.

Ainokea

Both the meaning and the pronunciation is “I no care”. This popular pidgin phrase is a popular brand name for tee-shirts around Hawaii.

Brok da mout

This derives from “Broke the Mouth”. This is said when you’ve had food so good you couldn’t stand it.

Choke

This means a lot of something. For example, if you go on a boat and you see 100 whales, then the ocean got “choke whales”.

Da kine

This is a catch-all that can mean nearly anything. If you can’t recall a name or place, simply say “da kine”.

Grind

This means to eat, and can also mean great food, when said with a “z” “grindz”.

Hana hou

This means “Once more, again,” as in, let’s do it again!

Hapa

This is someone of mixed ethnic or racial heritage, especially of Pacific Islander and Asian heritage.

Kapu

This means, forbidden or keep out. You will see this on signs, so keep a lookout, and don’t trespass. It’s also the social law that of ancient Hawaii, where many things were taboo, or forbidden.

Lua

This means the bathroom or restroom.

Lu’au

This is also a word we all know, meaning a feast or party. It’s a great aspect of Hawaiian culture!

Mahalo

This means “thank you” and you will hear it often in Hawaii.

Mauka / makai

You will hear this when receiving directions, telling you to either go towards the mountains or towards the ocean. “Mauka” (mountain side) or “makai” (ocean side).

Ohana

This means your immediate family members, as well as extended relatives and friends.

Ono

This means delicious food.

Pau hana

This means after work, or happy hour drinks. It also can mean when something has finished.

Rahja /rahja dat

This is derived from the military phrase “roger that”, and can also mean “OK”.

Shaka

This is a hand gesture that can be used as a greeting, a goodbye or to say thank you.

Shoots

This means “okay”.

I would recommend writing down a couple of these phrases on some notecards, in order to help you study. In no time you will be speaking like the locals of Hawaii.

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