vale
The Samoan word for "idiot" is vale.
vale is a noun used to describe a person of low general intelligence.
Meaning: person of low general intelligence (noun)
Did you know?
- In Samoan, the word vale also means 'house', creating a funny linguistic coincidence where an 'idiot' can be literally translated as a 'house'.
- Using vale in a formal setting or toward an elder is a severe breach of fa'a Samoa, which is the traditional Samoan way of life.
- The word vale can be used playfully between close friends or siblings, shifting from an insult to a term of endearment depending on the tone.
Examples in context
- O se vale o ia.He is an idiot.
- Ua avea o ia ma se vale.He has become an idiot.
Example conversation
Sina and Sione are arguing about a simple mistake.
- SinaSione, o se vale lava oe!Sione, you are such an idiot!
- SioneAua le fai mai o ou o se vale.Stop saying that I am an idiot.
- SinaAe na e faia le mea sese.But you did it wrong.
- SioneE le'i ou Vale, na mistake lava.I'm not an idiot, it was just a mistake.
