Here are 10 hilarious sayings you’ll only hear in Hawaii, blending local Hawaiian language and Pidgin slang that capture the island spirit with humor:
- Ho Brah!
An expression of excitement or surprise, like “Wow, dude!”
Example: “Ho brah! That wave was huge!” - Howzit?
A casual way to say “How are you?”
Example: “Howzit, my friend?” - Da Kine
Used when you can’t remember the name of something or anything vague.
Example: “Remember when da kine came over? She forgot her da kine.” - Hamajang
Something messed up, crooked, or disorderly.
Example: “I wen sleep with my hair wet and now it’s all hamajang.” - Kanak Attack
The sleepy feeling after eating too much food.
Example: “I ate too many leftovers, now I get one kanak attack.” - Talk Story
Long, relaxed conversations, usually involving gossip or catching up.
Example: “We just drank some beers and talk story all night.” - Slippahs
Flip-flops or sandals.
Example: “Hold up, let me put on my leather slippahs.” - L’dat
Fusion of “like” and “that,” meaning “that’s just how it is.”
Example: “Sometimes it just be l’dat.” - Broke Da Mouth
Used to describe food that is incredibly delicious.
Example: “This poke is so ono, it broke da mouth.” - Tantaran
To act showy, loud, or boisterous.
Example: “Don’t act all tantaran, this ain’t no beauty contest!”
These sayings reflect the laid-back, humorous, and uniquely Hawaiian way of expressing everyday experiences. Learning them not only gets a laugh but connects you to the local culture and vibe wherever you go in the islands.
SOURCES
[1](https://www.hawaiimagazine.com/44-hawaiian-and-pidgin-phrases-every-visitor-needs-to-know/)
[2](https://www.getours.com/expert-travel-advice/language-tips/hawaiian-slang-words-meanings)
[3](https://collectionsofwaikiki.com/pidgin-hawaiian-slang-words/)
[4](https://www.solemateadventures.com/hawaiian-slang-words-pidgin-phrases/)
[5](https://www.trafalgar.com/real-word/hawaiian-words-and-phrases/)
