brah
The English word 'bro' can be translated to Hawaiian as brah.
The term brah is used to refer to a male comrade, friend or someone who shares one's ideals. It is an adaptation of the English word 'brother' used within Hawaiian Pidgin.
Meaning: male comrade or friend, one who shares one’s ideals (noun)
When do people say it?
In addition to the Pidgin term, you may use Hoaloha, which means 'close friend' and serves as a term of endearment for a male buddy.
Did you know?
- While brah is a staple of Hawaiian Pidgin, using it with an elder or a stranger might be perceived as a lack of respect. In traditional Hawaiian culture, social hierarchy and age significantly dictate how one addresses a male companion.
- In Hawaii, brah is often used as a versatile punctuation mark or filler word in conversation, regardless of who is being addressed.
- The term brah is a linguistic bridge. It represents the unique blend of English and indigenous Hawaiian influences that characterizes Hawaiian Pidgin, a language born from the contact of diverse migrant workers.
Examples in context
- He brah kēlā.That guy is a brah.
- E brah, e hele mai!Bro, come here!
Example conversation
Koa and Noelani are meeting up at the beach.
- KoaAloha, Noelani!Hello, Noelani!
- NoelaniAloha, brah! Pehea ʻoe?Hello, bro! How are you?
- KoaMaikaʻi au, mahalo.I am good, thanks.
- NoelaniMaikaʻi kēlā.That is good.
