19 Unique Sayings That Only Make Sense in Hawaii

If you’ve ever visited Hawaii, you know the locals have a language all their own – and it’s not just the Pidgin English, but a whole other set of sayings that’ll make you scratch your head (and probably laugh out loud). Whether you’re trying to catch some waves, enjoy a plate lunch, or just be on “island time,” there’s a Hawaiian saying for everything. So grab your sunscreen and your aloha spirit, and let’s dive into the Hawaiian lexicon!

“Da kine”

When you don’t know the word for something, just say “da kine.” It’s the Swiss Army knife of Hawaiian slang—meaning anything and everything. Don’t stress about specifics, just use it in place of whatever word you can’t think of. “Pass me da kine over there!”

“Aloha”

Sure, it’s the classic greeting, but it’s so much more than that. It means love, peace, hello, goodbye, and “I’m going to crush this poke bowl.” If in doubt, just say “Aloha!” and you’ll fit right in.

“Hang loose”

This isn’t just for surfers! It’s the local way of telling someone to chill out. “Don’t worry about it, just hang loose!”

“Shaka”

You know the hand sign—the thumb and pinky up, others curled down. It’s the ultimate way to say, “Everything’s cool,” “Thanks,” or “I’m feeling good, bruh!” Don’t leave Hawaii without mastering it.

“Pau”

It’s over. Finished. Done. Whether it’s work or your meal, if it’s “pau,” it’s wrapped up. “Is your lunch pau yet?”

“Grindz”

Food. Everything from a poke bowl to plate lunch is referred to as grindz. If you’re starving, you better find some grindz, or you might not survive.

“Keiki”

Kids. They’re the future of Hawaii, and if you’re trying to sound extra local, refer to children as “keiki.” They might also be stealing your shave ice.

“Malama pono”

Take care. It’s not just “goodbye,” it’s a heartfelt “take care of yourself and others” kind of vibe. Use it for parting words with anyone you respect.

“Ono”

When something is delicious, it’s “ono.” It could be food, a sunset, or even that perfect wave you caught. “This loco moco is so ono!”

“Hana hou”

Do it again! Whether it’s a song you love, or a trick someone nailed, “hana hou” is all about asking for more. “That was an epic performance, hana hou!”

“Slippahs”

Flip-flops. You’re in Hawaii, you’re wearing slippahs. Don’t even think about calling them sandals—locals will know you’re a tourist.

“Wiki wiki”

Quick. Need to hurry? Just say “wiki wiki” and you’ll be on island time, but with a little more pep in your step.

“Mano”

Shark. So, if you see one while you’re snorkeling, don’t panic, just say “man, that’s a big mano!” and keep your cool.

“A hui hou”

Until we meet again. Not quite as casual as “bye,” but a bit more soulful. “A hui hou, my friend!”

“Mahalo”

Thank you. Don’t leave Hawaii without saying “mahalo,” because “thank you” just won’t cut it.

“Makai”

Toward the ocean. Head in that direction and you’re going “makai.” Want to hit the beach? That’s makai, my friend.

“Mauka”

Toward the mountains. If you’re heading up for a hike, just say “mauka” and pretend you’re an expert navigator.

“Tita”

A tough, strong woman who’s always ready for anything. She’s a warrior and probably can’t be stopped.

“Poi dog”

A mixed breed dog, but it’s also used to describe a person who’s a bit of a jack-of-all-trades. You’re good at a lot of things? Guess what, you’re a poi dog!

Hawaii has its own charm, and the way locals talk is just one of the many things that make it so unique. Once you get the hang of these sayings, you’ll be chatting like a local in no time. Until then, just remember to keep it cool, relax, and always be ready to say “Aloha!”

The post 19 Unique Sayings That Only Make Sense in Hawaii appeared first on When In Your State.

Source link