How to Say "Friend" in Hawaiian
The most natural way to say "Friend" in Hawaiian is pāʻina. Tap the speaker above to hear it, then say it back out loud. That is the fastest way to make it stick.
Other ways to say it
When to use it
You can use 'pāʻina' when referring to a friend in general conversation. It's suitable for both casual and formal settings. 'Hoa' is more relaxed and often used among close friends. Use 'pāʻina kūloko' in formal situations or when addressing someone respectfully.
Say it out loud, get corrected
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Examples in Hawaiian
| Hawaiian | English |
|---|---|
| He pāʻina koʻu. | I have a friend. |
| O nā pāʻina i loko o ka hale. | The friends are inside the house. |
The fastest way to remember it
Vocabulary you only read fades fast. Vocabulary you say out loud sticks. Hear pāʻina, repeat it a few times, then use it in a real sentence. SPAIKING lets you practice exactly that, speaking Hawaiian with a coach that corrects your pronunciation in real time. You can start with two free conversations.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between 'pāʻina' and 'hoa'?
'Pāʻina' is more general, while 'hoa' is more casual and intimate.
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