hoʻomaha
/ˌho.ʔoˈma.ha/
The Hawaiian way to say 'take it easy' is hoʻomaha.
While the English phrase 'take it easy' can function as a casual farewell, hoʻomaha is more literally used to suggest the physical act of resting or taking a break from activity.
Meaning: relax (verb)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is formed using the prefix hoʻo-, which is a causative marker meaning 'to cause to be' or 'to make'. This prefix turns the noun maha (rest/pause) into the verb hoʻomaha, meaning 'to cause to rest' or 'to relax'.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 4 syllables: /ˌho.ʔoˈma.ha/. The stress is on the 3rd syllable.
Did you know?
- The glottal stop in hoʻomaha is represented by the ʻokina, a consonant that is as vital to the word's meaning as the letters 'p' or 't' are in English.
- In some contexts, suggesting someone hoʻomaha can be a subtle way of telling them they look exhausted or are overworking themselves.
- Because the prefix hoʻo- is causative, using hoʻomaha can sometimes sound like you are instructing someone else to go rest, rather than suggesting they simply 'take it easy' themselves.
Examples in context
- Hoʻomaha i kēia manawa.Relax for now.
Example conversation
Leilani sees Keanu working too hard at his desk.
- LeilaniHe nui kou hana, e Keanu.You have a lot of work, Keanu.
- KeanuʻAe, pololei kēlā.Yes, that is correct.
- LeilaniE hoʻomaha pū kākou.Let's take it easy together.
- KeanuMaikaʻi kēlā manaʻo.That is a good idea.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry hoʻomaha, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
