11 Expressions Only a True Local Hawai‘i Native Will Understand

Hawai‘i is more than just a paradise of beaches and volcanoes—it’s a culture, a way of life, and a language all its own. Whether you were born and raised in the islands or just lucky enough to live here, you know that the way locals talk is a mix of Hawaiian, Pidgin, and a deep connection to ‘ohana, food, and the ocean. So, if you want to sound like a kama‘āina (local), not just a sunburnt tourist, here are 11 expressions only a true Hawai‘i native will understand.

1. “Howzit?”

Translation: Hey, how are you? This is the ultimate local greeting. It’s short, casual, and requires nothing more than a nod and a “howzit” in return.

2. “Shoots!”

Translation: Okay, sounds good, let’s do it! This all-purpose word can mean “yes,” “alright,” “see you later,” or even “I agree.” If a local says, “Meet you at the beach? Shoots!”—just grab your slippers and go.

3. “Brah, no act.”

Translation: Stop showing off, dude. If someone is acting like they’re better than they are, you’ll hear this real quick.

4. “Grindz”

Translation: Delicious food. Whether it’s poke, loco moco, or a plate lunch from Zippy’s, if it’s tasty, it’s grindz.

5. “Stay da kine.”

Translation: You know, that thing… This is the ultimate Pidgin placeholder word. If you don’t know the name of something (or just don’t feel like saying it), “da kine” works. Locals will somehow always understand.

6. “Auntie” or “Uncle”

Translation: A respectful way to refer to an elder, even if you’re not related. If you call someone “Auntie” or “Uncle,” it’s a sign of respect—and you’re probably about to get some good life advice or at least a plate of food.

7. “If can, can. If no can, no can.”

Translation: We’ll try, but if it’s not possible, oh well. This is the Hawaiian way of saying don’t stress too much—some things work out, some don’t.

8. “Eh, you like cruise?”

Translation: Wanna hang out? In Hawai‘i, “cruising” isn’t just about driving—it means relaxing, talking story, or just chilling with friends and family.

9. “He stay all buss up.”

Translation: That guy (or that thing) is totally messed up. Whether it’s a person who partied too hard last night or a car after hitting a pothole, if it’s in rough shape, it’s buss up.

10. “Slippahs”

Translation: Flip-flops. If you call them “flip-flops” or (worse) “thongs,” everyone will know you’re a tourist.

11. “Talk story.”

Translation: Having a good conversation. Whether you’re at a beach park, a family gathering, or a backyard BBQ, locals love to “talk story” and catch up.

If these expressions make perfect sense to you, congratulations—you might just be local kine. And if not, no worries, just grab a plate lunch, kick off your slippahs, and cruise. You’ll get the hang of it soon enough. Aloha!

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