Aloha
/aˈlo.ha/
The English phrase "hi" can be translated into Hawaiian as Aloha.
Aloha is a friendly, informal greeting. It can also be used to express warmth and respect.
Meaning: friendly, informal greeting (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
Etymologically, Aloha is linked to the concept of sharing or expressing breath and spirit.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Aloha can be used in both formal and informal settings to mean hello or goodbye. In formal situations, it is used to express warmth and respect.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 3 syllables, with the stress on the 2nd of 3 syllables. The IPA pronunciation is /aˈlo.ha/.
Did you know?
- In Hawaii, the 'Aloha Spirit' is a legal concept codified in state law to encourage kindness and coordination among citizens.
- The root of Aloha comes from the ancient Austronesian word for 'to beckon' or 'to wave', suggesting that the greeting is a physical gesture of recognition.
- The 'shaka' gesture, a rotating thumb and pinky, is often used as a silent visual version of Aloha.
Examples in context
- Aloha!Hi!
- Aloha e ke hoa.Hi, my friend.
Example conversation
Two friends meet at the beach.
- KeanuAloha, Leilani!Hi, Leilani!
- LeilaniAloha, Keanu!Hi, Keanu!
- KeanuPehea ʻoe?How are you?
- LeilaniMaikaʻi au, mahalo.I am good, thank you.
Sources
- Pronunciation from the Wiktionary entry aloha.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Aloha, aloha, CC BY-SA 4.0.
