akāka
The Hawaiian word for clear (meaning free of ambiguity or doubt) is akāka.
akāka is used to describe something that is free of ambiguity or doubt. In informal settings, the term pololei may also be used to communicate clearness, correctness or to indicate that something is straight or aligned.
Meaning: free of ambiguity or doubt (adj)
Did you know?
- In Hawaiian culture, clarity and truth are often linked to the concept of ao, which means 'light' or 'daylight'. To bring something into the 'light' is to make it akāka.
- While akāka describes mental clarity, the word mālie is often used to describe a 'clear' or calm sky and a peaceful ocean. English speakers often use 'clear' for both concepts, but Hawaiian distinguishes between intellectual clarity and atmospheric stillness.
- The word pololei, which can mean 'clear' in an informal sense, literally translates to 'straight' or 'upright'. It shares a conceptual root with the idea of being in a correct or proper alignment.
Examples in context
- Akāka ka ʻōlelo o ka kumu kūʻai.The words of the seller are clear.
Example conversation
Kiana and Ikaika are discussing a project assignment.
- KianaAkāka anei ka hana, e Ikaika?Is the work clear, Ikaika?
- IkaikaʻAe, akāka loa ia.Yes, it is very clear.
- KianaMaikaʻi, e hoʻomau i ka hana.Good, continue with the work.
- IkaikaE hana au i kēia manawa.I will do it now.
