When visiting Hawaii, immersing yourself in the culture extends beyond surfing lessons and luaus. The islands’ rich history, influenced by Polynesian voyagers and modern tourism, offers a unique linguistic landscape. Understanding key phrases, like learning to say ‘A hui hou’, the most common way to express until next time in Hawaiian, connects you deeper with the local community. The Hawaiian Language Center (‘Aha Pūnana Leo) plays a vital role in promoting and preserving this beautiful language for generations to come, helping people understand subtleties in communication like various ways to say until next time in hawaiian.

Image taken from the YouTube channel iHula Hawaii , from the video titled HOW TO SAY GOOD BYE IN HAWAIIAN – “A HUI HOU” MEANING .
Embracing the Aloha Spirit in Farewell
"Aloha" – it’s a word that likely conjures images of sun-kissed beaches and swaying palm trees. But it’s so much more than a simple hello or goodbye. It’s a profound expression of love, affection, peace, compassion, and a deep connection to the world around us.
In Hawaiian culture, farewells aren’t just fleeting moments. They’re carefully considered acknowledgements of a bond, a temporary separation imbued with the hope of future reunions. Understanding this cultural context is crucial before we explore the language of leave-taking.
So, are you ready to learn a beautiful and authentic Hawaiian phrase that will enrich your goodbyes?
The Multifaceted Meaning of Aloha
At its core, Aloha is a spirit, a way of life. It’s about extending unconditional love and respect to others.
It signifies harmony, unity, and mutual regard. It asks us to treat everyone we encounter with kindness and compassion.
This philosophy permeates every aspect of Hawaiian culture. It is deeply woven into the language itself. This influences how people communicate and connect with one another.
When we use the word Aloha, we are invoking this entire spectrum of meaning.
The Cultural Importance of Respectful Farewells
Farewells in Hawaii are often imbued with a sense of hope, respect, and a longing for future connection. They aren’t abrupt endings, but rather gentle pauses in a continuing relationship.
Taking the time to say goodbye properly shows respect. It demonstrates that you value the relationship, however brief it may be.
This is why learning appropriate farewell phrases is so important, particularly when visiting or interacting with Hawaiian culture. It’s a way to honor the traditions and show your appreciation for the Aloha spirit.
Learning a Simple Phrase: "Until Next Time"
Imagine being able to say "until we meet again" in the language of the islands. It’s easier than you think!
In the following sections, we’ll introduce you to a simple, versatile Hawaiian phrase that will allow you to do just that.
Get ready to expand your vocabulary and connect with the Aloha spirit on a deeper level. By the end of this guide, you will be equipped with a respectful and authentic way to say "until next time" in Hawaiian.
"A hui hou": Your Go-To "Until Next Time" in Hawaiian
We’ve established the depth and beauty woven into even the simplest Hawaiian greetings. Now, let’s equip you with a practical phrase you can use every day. This one rolls off the tongue and directly translates to "until next time."
Let’s discover how to say "until next time" in Hawaiian with a phrase that’s both common and versatile: A hui hou.
This phrase is your go-to for a friendly and respectful farewell, suitable for almost any situation.
Mastering the Pronunciation of A hui hou
Many find Hawaiian words intimidating at first glance, but with a little practice, you’ll be saying A hui hou with confidence.
Here’s a simple phonetic breakdown to guide you:
- A: Pronounced "Ah" (as in "father")
- hui: Pronounced "hoo-ee" (rhymes with "who-ee")
- hou: Pronounced "ho-oo" (as in "boo")
- Together: Ah-hoo-ee-ho-oo
Practice saying it slowly at first, emphasizing each syllable. Soon, it will become second nature.
Listen to online audio examples of native speakers pronouncing A hui hou to refine your pronunciation further.
Unpacking the Meaning: "Until We Meet Again"
While often translated as "until next time," A hui hou literally means "until we meet again."
This nuance speaks volumes about the Hawaiian perspective on relationships.
It suggests a temporary parting with the expectation of a future reunion. It’s a farewell imbued with optimism and hope.
The phrase acknowledges the connection between individuals and reinforces the desire for continued interaction.
A hui hou in Action: Real-Life Examples
The beauty of A hui hou lies in its adaptability. You can use it in various scenarios.
Here are a few examples to illustrate its versatility:
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Casual Setting:
Imagine you’re leaving a friend’s house after a delightful afternoon. As you step out the door, you can say, "A hui hou! See you later!" -
Work Environment:
After a productive meeting with colleagues, a simple "A hui hou everyone" is a warm and professional way to conclude. -
Farewelling a Visitor:
If you’re saying goodbye to someone visiting Hawaii, "A hui hou! We hope to see you back soon!" conveys genuine hospitality. -
Ending a Phone Call:
Instead of a simple "goodbye," try "A hui hou! Let’s talk again soon" to add a personal touch.
In each instance, A hui hou communicates a friendly and respectful farewell, leaving a positive lasting impression. It’s a simple phrase, yet it embodies the warmth and spirit of Aloha.
Adding Depth: Enriching Your Goodbyes Beyond "A hui hou"
"A hui hou" provides a solid foundation for bidding farewell in Hawaiian, but like any language, there’s always room for nuance and warmth. Think of it as expanding your emotional palette.
Beyond the simple "until next time," you can enrich your goodbyes with phrases that convey care, concern, and gratitude, elevating your interactions to a deeper level of connection.
Let’s explore how to add these layers of meaning to your farewells.
Introducing "Mālama Pono": Meaning and Usage
"Mālama Pono" is a beautiful expression that goes beyond a simple "goodbye." It encapsulates the idea of taking care and doing things with righteousness and integrity. It’s about wishing well-being and positive actions upon someone.
Unpacking the Meaning of "Mālama Pono"
Broken down, "mālama" means to take care of, preserve, protect, attend to, or maintain. "Pono," on the other hand, signifies goodness, righteousness, balance, harmony, and correctness.
When combined, "Mālama Pono" is a heartfelt encouragement to take good care of oneself and to act in a way that is right and balanced. It’s a wish for wholeness and well-being on all levels.
Incorporating "Mālama Pono" into Farewell
The beauty of "Mālama Pono" lies in its versatility. You can use it on its own as a warm farewell, especially when you’re concerned about someone’s well-being or want to offer encouragement.
It’s particularly fitting when someone is facing a challenge, embarking on a journey, or simply needs a reminder to prioritize self-care.
Examples of Combining "Mālama Pono" with "A hui hou"
For an even more impactful farewell, consider pairing "Mālama Pono" with "A hui hou." This combination offers both the expectation of a future meeting and a sincere wish for well-being in the interim.
Here are a few examples:
- "A hui hou, mālama pono." (Until next time, take good care.)
- "Mālama pono a hui hou." (Take good care, until we meet again.)
The order can be adjusted based on the emphasis you want to convey. It’s about choosing the words that feel most natural and authentic to you.
Expressing Gratitude with "Mahalo"
While "Mālama Pono" focuses on care, "Mahalo" brings the element of gratitude into your farewell. It’s a simple yet powerful way to acknowledge someone’s kindness, help, or presence.
The Essence of "Mahalo"
"Mahalo" translates directly to "Thank you." However, like "Aloha," its meaning extends beyond a mere expression of gratitude. It embodies appreciation, respect, and acknowledgment of a connection.
Using "Mahalo" When Saying Goodbye
Adding "Mahalo" to your farewell is a simple way to express your appreciation before parting ways. It leaves the other person feeling valued and respected.
You can use it in various ways:
- "A hui hou, mahalo." (Until next time, thank you.)
- "Mahalo nui loa, a hui hou!" (Thank you very much, until we meet again!)
- "Mahalo for everything, mālama pono." (Thank you for everything, take good care.)
By incorporating "Mahalo," you’re not just saying goodbye; you’re acknowledging the positive impact the other person has had, reinforcing the connection between you, and spreading the spirit of Aloha.
"Mālama Pono" beautifully encapsulates the spirit of care and well-being as you part ways. Similarly, a simple "Mahalo" layered into your goodbyes expresses heartfelt gratitude, further enriching your connection. But what if you yearn to go beyond these beautiful additions?
Dive Deeper: Exploring the Beauty of the Hawaiian Language
Learning a few phrases opens a window, but immersing yourself in the Hawaiian language is like stepping into a vibrant garden. It’s an experience that deepens your understanding of Hawaiian culture and unlocks a whole new level of connection. Don’t just say "until next time"—understand the spirit behind it.
Why Learn More Hawaiian?
The Hawaiian language, or ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, is more than just a means of communication. It’s a vessel of cultural knowledge, history, and worldview.
It’s intrinsically linked to the land (ʻāina), the ocean (kai), and the spiritual beliefs of the Hawaiian people.
Learning the language is an act of respect and an avenue for appreciating the depth of Hawaiian culture.
Beyond "A hui hou": Expanding Your Vocabulary
Start with the basics. Familiarize yourself with common greetings like "Aloha kakahiaka" (good morning) and "Aloha auinala" (good afternoon).
Learn essential phrases like "Pehea ‘oe?" (How are you?) and "Maikaʻi au" (I’m fine).
Gradually, build your vocabulary by focusing on topics that interest you, whether it’s nature, food, or Hawaiian mythology. Every new word is a step further on your journey.
Unlocking Grammar Basics
Hawaiian grammar might seem daunting at first, but it’s surprisingly logical. Unlike English, Hawaiian doesn’t rely heavily on verb conjugations.
Word order is relatively flexible, and particles play a crucial role in conveying meaning.
Start with simple sentence structures and gradually work your way up to more complex ones. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes; it’s all part of the learning process.
Resources for Your Hawaiian Language Journey
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Online Courses: Platforms like Duolingo and Memrise offer introductory Hawaiian courses. They’re a great way to learn basic vocabulary and grammar in an interactive way.
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Language Learning Apps: Apps such as Drops provide bite-sized lessons that fit into your daily routine. These apps are helpful for building vocabulary and improving pronunciation.
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Books: Consider investing in a good Hawaiian language textbook or phrasebook. "Teach Yourself Hawaiian" and "Hawaiian Dictionary" by Mary Kawena Pukui and Samuel Elbert are excellent resources.
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Community Classes: Look for Hawaiian language classes or workshops in your local community. Learning in a group setting can provide valuable support and encouragement.
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Immerse Yourself (If Possible): Nothing beats learning in Hawaii itself. If you have the opportunity to visit, take a language class, attend cultural events, and practice speaking with locals.
Learning any language is a journey, and Hawaiian is no exception. Be patient with yourself, embrace the process, and enjoy the beauty of this vibrant language. Every "Aloha" you speak is a step closer to understanding the true spirit of Hawaii.
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Experience the Aloha: Using Your New Phrases in Hawaii
Learning a phrase is one thing, but truly embodying the Aloha spirit means bringing it to life. Imagine yourself on the shores of Hawaii, ready to use your newfound knowledge. It’s about more than just saying the words; it’s about connecting with the culture and showing respect. Let’s explore how you can seamlessly integrate these farewells into your Hawaiian adventure.
The Joy of Speaking Hawaiian
Picture this: you’re checking out at a local market, filled with the aroma of fresh tropical fruit. As the cashier hands you your bag, you offer a warm " A hui hou, mahalo!" Their face lights up, surprised and delighted by your effort.
This small gesture creates a genuine connection, a moment of shared appreciation that transcends a simple transaction. Using Hawaiian phrases, even basic ones, shows that you’re not just a tourist, but someone who cares about the culture.
It opens doors to meaningful interactions and allows you to experience Hawaii on a deeper, more personal level. The joy comes not just from speaking the words, but from the connection you forge.
Respectful Language Use: Essential Tips
Using the Hawaiian language comes with a responsibility: to use it respectfully and with understanding. It’s more than just mimicking sounds; it’s about honoring the culture from which it originates.
Acknowledge the Source
Always remember that ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi is a living language with a deep history. Be mindful of its significance and avoid using it flippantly or inappropriately. Learning about the history of the language, its suppression, and its revitalization efforts will give you a greater appreciation for its importance.
Pronunciation Matters
Strive to pronounce words correctly. Mispronunciation can sometimes alter the meaning of a word or phrase, leading to misunderstandings. There are many online resources, including videos and audio recordings, that can help you refine your pronunciation. Don’t be afraid to ask a local for help!
Context is Key
Be aware of the context in which you’re using the language. While " A hui hou" is generally appropriate in most farewell situations, consider whether a more formal or informal phrase might be more suitable. Observe how locals use language in different settings and adapt accordingly.
When in Doubt, Ask
If you’re unsure about the appropriate way to say something, don’t hesitate to ask a local speaker for guidance. Most people are happy to share their knowledge and appreciate your effort to learn. A simple "E kala mai, pehea ‘oe e olelo ai…?" ("Excuse me, how would you say…?") can go a long way.
Plan Your Aloha-Filled Visit
Ready to experience the magic of Hawaii firsthand? Planning your visit with an eye towards cultural immersion can make all the difference.
Seek Authentic Experiences
Go beyond the typical tourist attractions and seek out opportunities to connect with local culture. Attend a luau that showcases traditional Hawaiian music, dance, and food. Visit a heiau (ancient temple) and learn about its significance.
Support Local Businesses
Choose to patronize locally owned businesses whenever possible. This helps support the local economy and provides opportunities to interact with residents. Shop at farmers’ markets, dine at family-run restaurants, and book tours with local guides.
Engage Respectfully
When interacting with locals, be respectful and mindful of their customs and traditions. Ask permission before taking photos of people. Be patient and understanding, especially when navigating cultural differences.
By approaching your visit with Aloha in your heart and a willingness to learn, you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime, and contribute to the preservation of Hawaiian culture.
So, next time you’re saying goodbye in the islands, ditch the basic ‘goodbye’ and impress your friends with some Aloha! Now you know how to properly say until next time in hawaiian. Aloha!