hori: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowTaboo / Offensive / Slang
Quick answer
What does “hori” mean?
A derogatory ethnic slur used in New Zealand, primarily against Māori people.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A derogatory ethnic slur used in New Zealand, primarily against Māori people.
In its extended use, it can sometimes be used by Māori themselves in a reclaimed, ironic, or self-referential way, though this is highly context-dependent and contentious.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is almost exclusively used in the context of New Zealand English. It is not part of mainstream British or American vocabulary.
Connotations
In NZ, universally negative and racist. In UK/US, likely unknown or recognized only as a highly specific NZ slur.
Frequency
Extremely rare in both UK and US English. Its mention would almost solely occur in discussions about New Zealand society, racism, or historical contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “hori” in a Sentence
[Subject] called [Object] a hori.The term 'hori' is used pejoratively.Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Unacceptable in any professional context.
Academic
Only mentioned in sociological, historical, or linguistic studies discussing racism and language.
Everyday
Taboo and offensive. Not used in polite conversation.
Technical
No technical usage.
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “hori”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “hori”
- Using it without understanding its extreme offensiveness.
- Assuming it can be used casually because it's short.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a deeply offensive racial slur. Its use by non-Māori is always unacceptable. Any use by Māori is highly context-specific and contentious, and does not grant permission for others to use it.
It derives from a Māori pronunciation of the English name 'George' (Hōri). It was used mockingly by British colonists and evolved into a general ethnic slur against Māori people.
Virtually never. It is specific to the historical and social context of New Zealand. Most English speakers outside NZ would not know the word.
Recognize it as serious racist language. Appropriate responses depend on the situation but can include clearly stating that the term is offensive and unacceptable, or removing yourself from the conversation.
A derogatory ethnic slur used in New Zealand, primarily against Māori people.
Hori is usually taboo / offensive / slang in register.
Hori: in British English it is pronounced /ˈhɒri/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈhɔːri/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'HORIble' term. It's a horrible, offensive word.
Conceptual Metaphor
N/A for slurs.
Practice
Quiz
In which context might the word 'hori' be academically discussed?