aloha kākou
/aˈlo.ha kaːˈkou̯/word by word
The Hawaiian phrase for "hello everyone" is aloha kākou.
aloha kākou is a greeting used to address a group of people. It is used specifically when the speaker is included in the group being addressed.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase consists of aloha (meaning love, affection or greeting) and kākou (a pronoun meaning "we/us" including the speaker and everyone being addressed).
Which one should you use?
While aloha kākou means "hello everyone" including the speaker, you would use aloha lākou to say "hello to all of you" if the speaker is not part of the group being addressed.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /aˈlo.ha kaːˈkou̯/. It has 4 syllables and the stress is on the 2nd of 4 syllables.
Did you know?
- The word aloha is so central to the culture that it is codified in Hawaii's state laws as the 'Aloha Spirit', which mandates treating others with kindness.
- In traditional Hawaiian culture, the spirit of aloha is often accompanied by the 'honi', a greeting where two people touch foreheads and noses to share breath.
- While aloha is globally known as a greeting, in Hawaii it is a deeply spiritual concept involving the 'sharing of breath'.
Examples in context
- Aloha kākou i kēia kakahiaka.Hello everyone this morning.
Example conversation
Koa walks into a small community meeting where Leilani is waiting.
- KoaAloha kākou!Hello everyone!
- LeilaniAloha, Koa.Hello, Koa.
- KoaPehea ʻoe?How are you?
- LeilaniMaikaʻi nō, mahalo.Very good, thanks.
