I’d be remiss not to point you in the direction of learning the proper Hawaiian language. Where to Learn ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i, Not Hawaiian Pidgin Phrases Where to Learn 'Ōlelo Hawai'i, Not Hawaiian Pidgin Phrases.The Hawaiian Pidgin language was born as a simplified language between the groups who did not share a common language.Īs a visitor, learn these Hawaiian Pidgin phrases before you land to help you find the correct bathroom at a minimum. In the 19th century, indentured laborers from China, Portugal, Japan, the Philippines, Korea, and other countries were brought to Hawai’i to work the sugar cane plantations. The language is what makes a visit to Hawaii feel so special. Pidgin is not ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i but a Hawaii Creole English spoken by about 600,000 residents of Hawaii.ĭuring your Hawai’i vacation, you will hear grindz, da kine, shoots, talk story, and many more Pidgin phrases. Here are 15 Hawaiian Pidgin phrases to help you get around during your vacation.įirst, the Hawaiian language is called ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i and is spoken by the kānaka maoli (Native Hawaiians). The unique melting pot of people has created a unique language called Hawaiian Pidgin. Hawaii is like no other state in America thanks to the Hawaiian people and the many cultures that have migrated to the islands over the centuries.

Hawaiian pidgin words and phrases