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taps

Meaning: tapped out

Pronunciation: TAPS
descriptions intermediate

Meaning

tapped out
finished
broke

Usage: In Hawaiian Pidgin, "taps" signifies being broke, without funds, or completely finished with something. It's a common term used to express a lack of resources, whether financial or otherwise, and can apply to a variety of situations.

Examples

"I stay taps till next payday."

"Eh brah, I stay taps fo' da rest o' da week, gotta wait fo' my check."

"Da party was so good, but afta da food wen' pau, everybody stay taps."

Origin & Cultural Context

Origin: The term "taps" likely evolved from English slang, gaining popularity in Hawaii's diverse linguistic environment. It reflects the local culture's practical and often humorous approach to describing everyday situations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "taps" mean in Hawaiian Pidgin?

"taps" means "tapped out" in Hawaiian Pidgin. In Hawaiian Pidgin, "taps" signifies being broke, without funds, or completely finished with something. It's a common term used to express a lack of resources, whether financial or otherwise, and can apply to a variety of situations..

How do you pronounce "taps"?

"taps" is pronounced "TAPS". Click the "Hear Pronunciation" button above to listen!

How do you use "taps" in a sentence?

Example: "I stay taps till next payday."

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Pidgin & Local Culture Corner

Pidgin Grammar Tip

"Questions in Pidgin often use a rising intonation at the end of a statement rather than changing word order."

Local Culture Fact

"Talk story is a local Hawaiian expression for a casual conversation or sharing experiences."

Want to learn more? Check out our Learning Hub or Talk Story with Kimo!

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