"That policeman is smart."

Translation: Akamai kēlā mākaʻi.

[malia96797]

Is kēlā the verb?

[jdmcowan]

"Kēlā" is "that". I think "akamai" is acting like a verb here. I'm just learning, too, but that's the impression I get.

[Allan330940]

On the issue already raised, as far as I can see, there is no equivalent to to be in this kind of sentence. At least, none has appeared in any sentence of this type they have provided so far. I would also point out that the hint thing translated 'akamai' as "(is) smart".

My own question is which meaning of smart is the correct translation of 'akamai', clever or well-dressed? Context would tell us in conversation, but doesn't exist here.

[malia96797]

If it meant well dressed, the clothes would be smart, instead of the person

[kelii....]

The verbs to be and to have do not exist in Hawaiian.