Quick Answer
"Stink eye" is a dirty look or disapproving glare - a powerful form of non-verbal communication in Hawaii. When someone gives you stink eye, they're expressing annoyance, suspicion, disapproval, or dislike without saying a word. It's that look that says "I see what you're doing, and I don't like it." Everyone in Hawaii knows when they're getting stink eye - and knows to watch out!
How to Say "Stink Eye"
Pronunciation: Just like it looks - "stink" + "eye"
In a sentence: "Ho, she gave me da stink eye when I cut in line!"
Variations:
- "Stink eye" - the look itself
- "Give stink eye" - to glare at someone
- "Getting stink eye" - receiving the look
- "Major stink eye" - an especially intense glare
What Does Stink Eye Look Like?
The classic stink eye involves:
- Narrowed eyes - squinting or half-closed
- Hard stare - intense, unblinking gaze
- Raised eyebrow - optional but adds emphasis
- Tight lips - mouth closed, maybe slightly frowning
- Head tilt - sometimes accompanied by a slight head turn
The key is conveying disapproval entirely through your eyes and expression - no words needed!
When Do People Give Stink Eye?
Cutting in Line
Skip the queue? Expect immediate stink eye from everyone behind you.
Being Disrespectful
Disrespecting elders, locals, or Hawaiian culture earns serious stink eye.
Acting "Haole"
Oblivious tourist behavior or being culturally insensitive.
Talking Stink
Gossiping or saying something rude about someone.
Making Noise
Being loud or obnoxious in a quiet, respectful setting.
Checking Out Someone's Partner
Looking too long at someone's boyfriend/girlfriend? Stink eye incoming!
Stink Eye in Sentences
"Ho brah, da aunty gave me major stink eye when I showed up late."
The aunty glared at me hard when I arrived late.
"Why you giving me stink eye? What I did?"
Why are you looking at me like that? What did I do?
"She stay giving stink eye to everyone at da party."
She's glaring at everyone at the party.
"No give me stink eye - was one accident!"
Don't look at me like that - it was an accident!
How to Avoid Getting Stink Eye
- Be respectful: Treat locals, elders, and Hawaiian culture with aloha
- Wait your turn: Never cut in line - locals take this seriously
- Keep your voice down: Don't be the loud tourist
- Learn basic etiquette: Take off shoes before entering homes
- Don't block traffic: Pull over for photos, let faster cars pass
- Respect the 'aina: Don't litter or damage natural sites
Follow these rules and you'll receive aloha instead of stink eye!
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