Are you curious about how to say “December” in Hawaiian? Look no further! In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to express the month of December in the beautiful Hawaiian language. While regional variations exist, we will focus primarily on the standard Hawaiian language. Let’s dive in and discover the various ways to say “December” in Hawaiian.
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Say December in Hawaiian
In formal settings, such as official documents or formal conversations, you can use the word “Makahiki.” This term refers to the yearly cycle, including the months. Therefore, “Makahiki” is the formal way to express December in Hawaiian.
2. Informal Ways to Say December in Hawaiian
In informal settings or casual conversations, Hawaiians commonly use the word “Kēkēmapa” to refer to the month of December. The term “Kēkēmapa” is a direct adaptation of the English word “December” and is widely understood by native Hawaiians and residents of Hawaii.
3. Other Regional Variations
While “Makahiki” and “Kēkēmapa” are the standard ways to say December in Hawaiian, it’s worth noting that certain regions or individuals may have adopted slightly different terms. For example, in some local dialects, you might come across “Makahiki Nui” or “Kēkēmania.” However, these variations are less common and may not be universally understood. Therefore, using “Makahiki” or “Kēkēmapa” is generally recommended for clarity.
4. Tips for Pronunciation
Pronouncing Hawaiian words can be a bit challenging for newcomers to the language. Here are a few key tips to help you with the pronunciation of “Makahiki” and “Kēkēmapa”:
- When pronouncing “Makahiki,” remember that the “a” sounds like the “a” in “father” and the “i” at the end sounds like “ee.”
- For “Kēkēmapa,” the “ē” sounds like the “ay” in “bay,” and the letter “a” is pronounced as a short “a,” like in “cat.”
5. Examples in Context
Let’s take a look at a few examples to understand how to use “Makahiki” and “Kēkēmapa” in proper context:
In a formal email: “Aloha, I hope you are enjoying the holiday season. We would like to inform you that our office will be closed for the entire month of Makahiki.”
In a casual conversation: “E kala mai, but could you please meet me after work on Kēkēmapa? I have something important to discuss with you.”
6. Conclusion
With this comprehensive guide, you now know how to say “December” in Hawaiian. Whether you prefer the formal “Makahiki” or the informal “Kēkēmapa,” you can confidently use these words in the appropriate context. Just remember to take note of regional variations and enjoy the beauty of the Hawaiian language as you embrace the spirit of aloha throughout the month of December.
