Basic rules in learning the Hawaiian Language

Learning Hawaiian words can sometimes look intimidating. Once you learn the basic rules to the language, it becomes easier.  Hawaiian only has 13 letters -5 vowels (a,e,i,o,u) and 7 consonants( h,k,l,m,n,p,w) and the ` (okina or glottal stop).  There is also the kahako (a bar over the letter means to sound out the letter a little bit longer. A consonant is always followed by a vowel, therefore all Hawaiian words end in a vowel. It’s easier if you break down the words into single syllables. One that most common words to ask visitors is to pronounce the Hawaii state fish, Humuhumunukunukuapua`a. Go ahead try it.Hu-mu-hu-mu-nu-ku-nu-ku-a-pu-a-a, ok now pronounce it who-moo-who-moo-new-coo-new-coo-ah-poo-ah-ah. The w is pronounced as a v traditionaly, therefore Hawaii would be prononced  huh-vie-ee.

Here are some common words and phrases:

Keep in mind that the kahako has been omitted due to not having a keyboard with the  kahakô.

Ho`olu komo la kaua -Please join us

Mahalo nui loa ni ho`olaule`a me la kaua-Thank you for celebrating with us: Mahalo nui loa na ho’olaule’a me la kaua

Hele Mei Hoohiwahiawa-Come celebrate: Hele mei hoohiwahiwa

Mele Kalikimaka- Merry Christmas  (pronounced may-lay ka-lee-key-ma-ka)

Hau`oli Makahiki Hou- Happy New Year  (pronounced how-oh-lee ma-ka-hee-key ho)
Aloha Au Ia ‘Oe - I Love You

Me Ke Aloha - With love
A hui hou kakou - Until we meet again Mahalo -Thank you
Mahalo nui loa -Thank you very muchAloha `oe -Farewell to you

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