A Maori phrase meaning good, fine, or well done — used in New Zealand English as an expression of approval or encouragement. 'Ka pai' is one of the most commonly borrowed Maori phrases in New Zealand English and is used across contexts by all communities, from classrooms to workplaces to casual conversation. Pronounced approximately 'kah pie.' Its use reflects New Zealand's genuine bicultural engagement with te reo Maori.
The teacher smiled and said 'ka pai' when the student answered correctly.
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(New Zealand) good, fine.
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Regional slang from around the English-speaking world — British, Australian, Irish, Caribbean, Nigerian, Filipino, AAVE, and the hyphenated-English dialects that make the internet sound local.
See all Regional & Other slang on Slangora.