bo da dem

"Bo da dem" is a direct phonetic adaptation of the English phrase "both of them." It perfectly illustrates a core phonetic rule of Hawaiian Pidgin, where the English "th" sound is typically replaced with a "d" or "t" sound, and words are blended together for a smoother, faster conversational rhythm.

This phrase is used universally across Hawaii by locals of all ages and backgrounds. It is appropriate in almost any casual setting, from ordering plate lunches to dividing up chores at home. While perfectly acceptable and highly common in everyday local conversation, it is generally avoided in formal writing or strict professional environments where standard English is expected.

Kaimana was sweating in the Kahului Costco parking lot, trying to wedge a massive flatbed cart between two oversized Tacomas. His aunties, Luzviminda and Rosa, were arguing loudly over the last two rotisserie chickens they had snagged inside. Luzviminda insisted she needed one for her church potluck, while Rosa claimed she had dibs for her grandson's first birthday party.

"Aunty, please," Kaimana muttered, feeling the stares of a family waiting for their parking spot. "Just put the chickens in the trunk. We holding up the whole line." Rosa ignored him, waving a crumpled receipt in Luzviminda's face. "I paid for bo da dem! You said you was gonna buy the poke, but you never!"

Luzviminda gasped, clutching her chest dramatically. "I forgot my wallet in the car! You going make me look bad in front of the whole parking lot?" Kaimana quickly grabbed the chickens, his face burning red as the driver waiting for their spot honked a long, aggressive blast. "I taking bo da dem," he snapped, throwing them into the trunk and slamming it shut. "Next time, you guys staying home."