kuleana
Meaning: responsibility
Meaning
Usage: Kuleana signifies a person's rights, responsibilities, and privileges, often tied to a sense of duty or obligation. It's about fulfilling one's role within the family, community, or land. It emphasizes the importance of taking care of what is entrusted to you.
Examples
"Your kuleana"
"Eh, gotta take care yo' kuleana, yeah?"
"My kuleana fo' help my fam'ly, you know?"
Origin & Cultural Context
Origin: Rooted in the Hawaiian concept of land ownership and social structure, kuleana reflects the interconnectedness of people and their responsibilities to each other and the 'aina (land).
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "kuleana" mean in Hawaiian Pidgin?
"kuleana" means "responsibility" in Hawaiian Pidgin. Kuleana signifies a person's rights, responsibilities, and privileges, often tied to a sense of duty or obligation. It's about fulfilling one's role within the family, community, or land. It emphasizes the importance of taking care of what is entrusted to you..
How do you pronounce "kuleana"?
"kuleana" is pronounced "koo-leh-AH-nah". Click the "Hear Pronunciation" button above to listen!
How do you use "kuleana" in a sentence?
Example: "Your kuleana"
Quick Actions
Related Pidgin Words
Pidgin & Local Culture Corner
Pidgin Grammar Tip
"To indicate past tense, Pidgin often uses 'wen' before the verb (e.g., 'I wen go' for 'I went')."
Local Culture Fact
"The concept of 'Ohana' means family, but can also include close friends and the broader community."
Want to learn more? Check out our Learning Hub or Talk Story with Kimo!