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Mahalo Nui Loa!
Fun facts about the Hawaiian Language
The Hawaiian language, 'Ōlelo Hawai‘i, came to our shores along with the first people to arrive from the ancestral homelands of Polynesia. The language evolved alongside the culture into the nuanced, multi-layered 'Ōlelo Hawai‘i we know today. You can be a part of the 'Ōlelo Hawai‘i revival. Start with the basic Hawaiian words and pronunciation tips below. When you arrive, use Hawaiian place names whenever possible. A growing number of businesses are incorporating 'Ōlelo Hawai‘i into their signage. When you arrive at your hotel, ask what Hawaiian language resources are available. And remember to greet the people you meet with a warm, genuine Aloha. "the presence of breath" or "the breath of life."
Hawaiian words to know
- Aloha means hello, goodbye and love. You will generally hear it used as a greeting.
- Mahalo means thank you. While you can always say thank you, it’s nicer if you say mahalo instead. It’s pronounced “mah hah lo.”
- Ohana means family. You might hear of restaurant meals served ohana-style, which would mean family-style.
- Mokulele means Airplane
- E komo mai means welcome.
- Hale means house or home. (Haleakala means house of the sun.)
- Wahine means lady, female. Restrooms may be labeled wahine instead of women.
- Kane means man, male. Restrooms may be labeled kane instead of men.
- Keiki means child or children. You might see keiki menus or events and activities for keiki.
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1481 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96814
(808) 369-9448
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