fa'asoesa
The Samoan word for annoying is fa'asoesa.
fa'asoesa is an adjective used to describe something or someone that causes irritation or annoyance.
Meaning: causing irritation or annoyance (adj)
Did you know?
- In Samoan, the concept of annoyance is often tied to the disruption of va, the relational space between people, meaning a person is not just 'annoying' but is actively damaging a social connection.
- The prefix fa' in fa'asoesa is a linguistic tool found across the Pacific. It is used in Hawaiian and Maori to transform a root word into something that 'causes' a specific feeling.
- While fa'asoesa is the precise word for 'annoying', Samoans often use fa'alavelave to describe a person. This second word literally refers to a 'disturbance' or a 'problem' rather than a personality trait.
Example conversation
Sione and Talisa are talking about a loud noise outside.
- SioneE fa'asoesa le leo o le ta'avale.The sound of the car is annoying.
- TalisaAe, e lagu lona leo.Yes, the noise is constant.
- SioneE lē mafai ona ou toe moe.I cannot go back to sleep.
- TalisaTa'u mai le fia fa'alologo.Tell me about the desire to listen.
