There’s something comforting — and honestly, kind of genius — about the way Hawaiʻi folks talk story. Not just the stories themselves, but the way we say things. Ever heard “No worry chicken curry” and smiled without knowing why? Yeah, us too.
The Wisdom Hiding in Pidgin
Pidgin, officially known as Hawaiʻi Creole English, is more than just playful slang — it’s a cultural treasure that evolved from generations of immigrants, plantation workers, and local ʻohana trying to understand one another. And out of that stew of language came sayings that have lasted through decades — sometimes hilarious, sometimes wise, and often both.
Take “If can, can. If no can, no can.” You can’t argue with that logic. It’s straight-up Zen. Or how about “Try wait,” which somehow means both “just a sec” and “calm your okole down.” No stress, no fluff — just direct aloha.
From Da Store to Da Streets
You hear it everywhere — from aunty at the poke counter giving directions like “Go straight, then turn where the mango tree used to be,” to uncle yelling from his garage “Eh, no act.” These phrases aren’t just words; they’re verbal shakas. They communicate more than instructions — they carry tone, intent, relationship, even the weather forecast sometimes.
And don’t forget “Shoots!” Is there a more versatile expression in existence? Agreement, excitement, dismissal, celebration — shoots covers ‘em all.
Kids Still Saying It?
Some people think the younger generation is losing touch with these expressions. Maybe some are. But walk through a high school parking lot and you’ll still hear, “Brah, you one lolo or what?” or “Aiyo, broke da mouth!” after someone eats something ʻono.
In fact, thanks to local TikTok, Pidgin has found new life. Whether it’s comedic skits or tutorials like “how fo’ make da real kine spam musubi,” local slang is riding the wave, showing the world that the Hawaiian way of speaking — and thinking — is still very much alive.
Language as Aloha
What makes all this talk more than just talk is that it reflects the heart of life in Hawaiʻi — a culture that values chill over confrontation, humor over hostility, and relationships over rushing around.
So the next time you say “No make A,” or hear someone drop a classic “Eh, uce, where you stay?” smile. You’re not just speaking. You’re preserving a living, breathing part of our island soul.