The Hawaiian alphabet consists of just 13 letters: five vowels (A, E, I, O, U) and eight consonants (H, K, L, M, N, P, W, and the ʻokina). The ʻokina is a glottal stop that represents a brief pause in speech, similar to the sound in the middle of "uh-oh." This simple structure makes the Hawaiian language unique and distinct from many other languages. Each letter in the Hawaiian alphabet has a specific pronunciation, which contributes to the melodic quality of the language. Words are typically pronounced as they are spelled, making it easier for learners to read and speak. The alphabet reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Hawaiian Islands and is essential for understanding Hawaiian language and Hawaiian culture.