Communication Habits of Guamanian Men: Blending Tradition and Modern Lingo

Introduction: Understanding Communication Among Guamanian Men

On the island of Guam, communication among men is deeply influenced by both traditional Chamorro culture and modern American slang. This unique mix reflects the island's colonial history and its current status as a U.S. territory. While younger generations tend to embrace a casual, English-dominated style, there is still a strong cultural connection to Chamorro phrases, especially in more formal or familial settings. Understanding these communication styles helps visitors and locals alike engage meaningfully in conversations across generations.

Communication Habits by Age Group

12-18 Years Old

Teenage boys in Guam commonly use a blend of English and Chamorro, with expressions like "Håfa?" (What's up?) being a popular greeting among friends. This casual communication style reflects their laid-back island culture. They often throw in slang such as “Leche!” (a mild expletive used to express frustration or surprise) or call each other "che’lu" (brother or sister, gender-neutral), which emphasizes close friendship.

19-29 Years Old

Young adults in this age range often shift between casual and respectful language depending on the context. In informal settings, they use "Par" (a short form of "pari," meaning godfather, but used as "buddy") to address close friends. Meanwhile, in more professional or familial environments, respect for elders is conveyed through more traditional Chamorro phrases, such as "Si Yu’us ma’åse’" (Thank you, literally "God have mercy").

30-39 Years Old

By their thirties, men in Guam often assume roles as family leaders, and their communication style becomes more authoritative. Phrases like “Fanatåtte” (Leave later) or “Buenas tåtdes” (Good afternoon) are commonly used in formal gatherings. At the same time, they still maintain casual interactions with peers, where phrases like "If anything" (meaning "maybe" or "we'll see") are used to keep plans open-ended without committing.

40 Years Old and Above

Older men on Guam, particularly those over 40, command significant respect in both family and community settings. Their communication is often formal, emphasizing harmony and respect. Chamorro phrases such as "Put fabot" (Please) and "Ådios" (Goodbye) are frequently used to express courtesy. There is also a notable reliance on non-verbal communication, such as avoiding direct eye contact to convey respect, especially when speaking with elders.

Common Phrases and Expressions by Age Group

12-18 Years Old

• "Håfa?" – What's up?; casual greeting used among friends.
• "Leche!" – Darn/Heck!; mild expletive used to express frustration or surprise.
• "Che’lu" – Sibling; used similarly to "bro" among peers.
• "Salamat" – Thank you (borrowed from Filipino); often used informally.
• "Ai adai" – Oh my!; an expression of surprise or disbelief.

19-29 Years Old

• "Par" – Buddy; casual term of friendship.
• "Si Yu’us ma’åse’" – Thank you; formal expression of gratitude.
• "Kao mamaolek ha’ hao?" – How are you?; polite inquiry, often used in professional settings.
• "Fanatåtte" – Leave later; often used in farewells among friends.
• "If anything" – Maybe; used to imply a vague commitment.

30-39 Years Old

• "Buenas tåtdes" – Good afternoon; polite greeting in formal situations.
• "Put fabot" – Please; commonly used when making polite requests.
• "Ådios" – Goodbye; a respectful way to take leave.
• "Esta ågupa’" – Until tomorrow; used when departing at the end of the day.
• "Leche!" – Still used, but more humorously with close friends.

40 Years Old and Above

• "Si Yu’us ma’åse’" – Thank you; formal and respectful.
• "Ådios" – Goodbye; polite farewell in most situations.
• "Put fabot" – Please; always used with courtesy.
• "Memorias" – Greetings; often used when seeing old friends.
• "Hasta luego" – See you later; borrowed from Spanish but still used in Guam.

Conclusion: Effective Communication with Guamanian Men

When communicating with Guamanian men, it’s important to understand the blend of Chamorro tradition and modern slang. Show respect by using polite phrases such as "Si Yu’us ma’åse’" in formal settings, and embrace casual language like "Håfa?" in more relaxed environments. Above all, demonstrating cultural sensitivity and a willingness to learn some local phrases will enhance any interaction, making communication smooth and enjoyable.