If you’ve ever visited Hawaii or heard someone say “A Hui Hou,” you might have wondered what it truly means. It’s more than just a way to say goodbye. In Hawaiian, “A Hui Hou” means “until we meet again,” and it carries with it a sense of warmth, hope, and connection. Whether you’re planning a trip to the islands, learning the language, or just curious about Hawaiian culture, understanding this phrase adds a beautiful touch to any conversation.

At its heart, “A Hui Hou” is a reflection of the aloha spirit — that unique blend of love, respect, and hospitality that defines life in Hawaii. It’s not just about parting ways. It’s about honoring the time you’ve spent together and looking forward to seeing each other again. That’s why locals and visitors alike use it in so many different situations, from casual goodbyes to farewells at the airport.

So, if you’ve ever heard someone say “A Hui Hou” and felt a little emotional, you’re not alone. This phrase holds deep cultural meaning, and knowing how and when to use it can make your experience in Hawaii even more meaningful. Let’s dive into the full story behind “A Hui Hou” and explore how you can use it in your own life.

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Table of Contents

• Introduction
• What Does “A Hui Hou” Mean?
• How to Pronounce “A Hui Hou”
• When to Use “A Hui Hou”
• “A Hui Hou” in Hawaiian Culture
• Common Variations and Similar Phrases
• How to Respond to “A Hui Hou”
• FAQs About “A Hui Hou”

What Does “A Hui Hou” Mean?

“A Hui Hou” translates directly to “until we meet again” in Hawaiian. The phrase is made up of three parts: “A,” which is a preposition meaning “until,” “Hui,” which can mean “to meet” or “to gather,” and “Hou,” which means “again.” Put together, it expresses the hope that you’ll see the person again someday.

Unlike a simple goodbye, “A Hui Hou” carries emotional weight. It’s often used when parting ways with someone you care about, whether it’s at the end of a fun day together, before a long trip, or even at a memorial service. The idea is that the goodbye is only temporary — and that you’ll be reunited again in the future.

How to Pronounce “A Hui Hou”

Proper pronunciation is key when learning any Hawaiian phrase. Here’s how to say “A Hui Hou”:

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• A – pronounced “ah”
• Hui – pronounced “hoo-ee”
• Hou – pronounced “hoe” or “ho-oo”

So the full phrase sounds like “Ah hoo-ee hoe.” The Hawaiian language places emphasis on the second-to-last syllable, so you’ll want to stress the “hoo” in “Hui.”

If you’re unsure, there are many online resources and audio clips that can help you hear the correct pronunciation. You can listen to a sample pronunciation here to get a better sense of how it’s spoken by native speakers.

When to Use “A Hui Hou”

“A Hui Hou” is versatile and can be used in many different situations. Here are a few common examples:

• At the end of a visit: When you’re leaving a friend’s house or finishing a fun day at the beach, saying “A Hui Hou” lets them know you hope to see them again soon.
• At the airport: If you’re saying goodbye to someone who’s leaving Hawaii, locals often say “A Hui Hou” as a way to honor their journey and express hope for a future reunion.
• At memorial services: Because the phrase implies that you’ll meet again, it’s often said during funerals or remembrance events. It’s a way to honor someone’s spirit and keep a sense of hope during a difficult time.
• With loved ones: Whether it’s a family member, a close friend, or a romantic partner, “A Hui Hou” is a heartfelt way to say goodbye and express your desire to reunite.

So, next time you’re parting ways with someone, consider using “A Hui Hou” instead of a simple “goodbye.” It adds a touch of warmth and cultural richness to the moment.

“A Hui Hou” in Hawaiian Culture

In Hawaiian culture, language is deeply connected to values and traditions. “A Hui Hou” is more than just a phrase — it reflects the core Hawaiian values of connection, community, and aloha.

The concept of aloha includes love, compassion, and respect, and “A Hui Hou” captures that spirit perfectly. It’s not just about saying goodbye — it’s about acknowledging the bond you share with someone and expressing the hope that your paths will cross again.

Traditionally, Hawaiians believed in the idea of reunion — not just in life, but also in spirit. So when someone says “A Hui Hou,” they’re not only hoping to meet again in the physical world, but also in the afterlife. That’s why it’s often used at funerals and other spiritual gatherings.

Because of this deep cultural meaning, “A Hui Hou” is used with care and intention. It’s not just a throwaway phrase — it’s a sincere expression of love, respect, and hope.

Common Variations and Similar Phrases

While “A Hui Hou” is the most common way to say “until we meet again,” there are a few other Hawaiian phrases that express similar sentiments:

• A Hui Hōkahi: This variation means “until we meet again once” or “until the next meeting.” It adds a slightly more specific nuance to the phrase, suggesting a single future reunion.
• A Hui Kākou: This version includes the word “kākou,” which means “us” or “we.” It’s used when saying goodbye to a group of people, and it carries the same warm, hopeful tone as the standard phrase.
• Aloha au ia ‘oe: Meaning “I love you” or “my aloha is with you,” this phrase is often used in romantic or deeply emotional farewells.

Depending on the situation and the relationship you have with the person you’re saying goodbye to, you can choose the version that feels most appropriate.

How to Respond to “A Hui Hou”

When someone says “A Hui Hou” to you, it’s polite and kind to respond in the same way. Simply say “A Hui Hou” back to acknowledge their sentiment and express your own hope to see them again.

You can also add a personal touch by saying something like:

• “A Hui Hou, and mahalo for a wonderful time!”
• “A Hui Hou, and I’ll see you again soon.”
• “A Hui Hou, until the next island breeze.”

These kinds of responses add warmth and show that you truly value the time you spent together.

FAQs About “A Hui Hou”

What is the best way to use “A Hui Hou” in a conversation?

Use “A Hui Hou” when you’re parting ways with someone and you genuinely hope to see them again. It works well in both casual and formal settings, and it’s especially meaningful when used with loved ones or during special occasions.

Is “A Hui Hou” only used in Hawaii?

While it’s a Hawaiian phrase, “A Hui Hou” is also understood and used by people around the world who appreciate Hawaiian culture. You’ll often hear it at Hawaiian-themed events, in movies or TV shows set in Hawaii, and even in songs or poems inspired by island life.

Can I use “A Hui Hou” at a funeral?

Yes, many Hawaiians use “A Hui Hou” during funerals and memorial services. It’s a way to honor the person who has passed while also expressing the belief that you’ll meet again — either in life or in spirit.

Final Thoughts

“A Hui Hou” is more than just a Hawaiian goodbye — it’s a heartfelt expression of love, hope, and connection. Whether you’re visiting the islands, learning the language, or just looking for a more meaningful way to say farewell, this phrase is a beautiful addition to your vocabulary.

So next time you’re parting ways with someone, instead of saying “goodbye,” try “A Hui Hou.” It might just make the moment feel a little more special.

Learn more about Hawaiian phrases and culture on our site, and discover other meaningful expressions that reflect the spirit of aloha.