Back to Dictionary

jan ken po

Meaning: rock paper scissors

Pronunciation: jahn-ken-POH
games advanced

Meaning

• rock paper scissors

Usage: This is the Pidgin term for the game 'rock, paper, scissors.' It's used to make a quick decision or settle a disagreement.

Examples

"Play jan ken po"

"Let's play jan ken po fo' decide who goin' first."

"Jan ken po, shoot!"

Origin & Cultural Context

Origin: This phrase is derived from the Japanese pronunciation of 'rock, paper, scissors,' reflecting the influence of Japanese culture in Hawaii.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "jan ken po" mean in Hawaiian Pidgin?

"jan ken po" means "rock paper scissors" in Hawaiian Pidgin. This is the Pidgin term for the game 'rock, paper, scissors.' It's used to make a quick decision or settle a disagreement..

How do you pronounce "jan ken po"?

"jan ken po" is pronounced "jahn-ken-POH". Click the "Hear Pronunciation" button above to listen!

How do you use "jan ken po" in a sentence?

Example: "Play jan ken po"

Quick Actions

Related Pidgin Words

Pidgin & Local Culture Corner

Pidgin Grammar Tip

"The word 'stay' is frequently used as a progressive marker, like 'He stay eating' for 'He is eating'."

Local Culture Fact

"The kahakō (vowel with a macron) indicates a long vowel sound in Hawaiian words."

Want to learn more? Try whole sentences in our English to Pidgin translator, check out our Learning Hub, or Talk Story with Kimo!

Practice Your Pidgin

How Local You Stay?

Think you know how for use "jan ken po"?

Take the Quiz →