Learn How to Pronounce Hawaii | YouPronounce.it
How to Pronounce Hawaii
(Listen to the audio below for the stress and intonation)
Meaning and Context
Hawaii, admitted as the 50th state of the United States on August 21, 1959, is a unique volcanic archipelago located in the Central Pacific Ocean. Its dramatic landscapes are forged by its position over a geological hotspot, resulting in iconic active volcanoes like Kilauea and Mauna Loa within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Beyond its world-famous beaches and premier surfing destinations such as the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii is defined by a profound indigenous culture. The spirit of Aloha, the art of hula dancing, and the Hawaiian language are living traditions that offer a deep cultural immersion for visitors. This combination of unparalleled natural beauty—from lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls to black sand beaches—and a rich, resilient heritage makes Hawaii a top-tier destination for tourism, adventure travel, and ecological study, solidifying its status as a Pacific paradise and a critical hub for biodiversity.
Common Mistakes and Alternative Spellings
The standard spelling is "Hawaii." A common and historically significant variant is "Hawai'i," which includes the 'okina, a glottal stop that is a consonant in the Hawaiian language. Using the 'okina (Hawai'i) is considered more accurate and respectful to the indigenous language and culture, though the anglicized "Hawaii" remains widely accepted in general English usage. Frequent misspellings and typos include "Hawai" (dropping the final 'i'), "Hawaai" (doubling the 'a'), and "Hawii" (transposing the 'i's). The demonym "Hawaiian" is also sometimes misspelled as "Hawaiin" or "Hawaian." When writing formally or with cultural sensitivity, employing the 'okina in "Hawai'i" and the kahakō (macron) in words like "Kānaka Maoli" (Native Hawaiians) is encouraged to honor the correct orthography.
Example Sentences
Many travelers dream of visiting Hawaii to experience its stunning volcanic landscapes and warm, welcoming culture.
The island of Maui is renowned for the scenic Hana Highway and the breathtaking sunrise at Haleakalā National Park.
Understanding the concept of "Aloha 'āina," which translates to love of the land, is central to appreciating the Hawaiian worldview.
After the devastating wildfires in Lahaina in 2023, the community demonstrated remarkable resilience.
Direct flights from the mainland United States to Honolulu on Oahu make the archipelago accessible to millions of visitors each year.
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