Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say numbers in Samoan! Whether you’re planning a trip to Samoa, have Samoan friends, or simply want to learn a new language, knowing how to express numbers in Samoan is essential. In this guide, we will provide you with both formal and informal ways of saying numbers, and we’ll also touch upon any regional variations if necessary. So let’s dive in and explore the fascinating world of Samoan numbers!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways of Saying Numbers in Samoan
Samoan language, known locally as Gagana Samoa, has unique words for expressing numbers. Here are the formal ways of saying numbers from 1 to 20 in Samoan:
Number – Samoan Word
1 – tasi
2 – lua
3 – tolu
4 – fa
5 – lima
6 – ono
7 – fitu
8 – valu
9 – iva
10 – sefulu
11 – sefulu ma tasi
12 – sefulu ma lua
13 – sefu ma tolu
14 – sefulu ma fa
15 – sefulu ma lima
16 – sefulu ma ono
17 – sefulu ma fitu
18 – sefulu ma valu
19 – sefulu ma iva
20 – luafulu
To say numbers beyond 20 in a formal manner, simply combine the word for tens with the word for units. For example, 21 would be “luafulu ma tasi,” 36 would be “tolufulu ma ono,” and so on.
Informal Ways of Saying Numbers in Samoan
Informal Samoan, commonly spoken among friends and family, often uses simplified versions of numbers. Here are the informal ways of saying numbers from 1 to 10 in Samoan:
Number – Samoan Word
1 – sa
2 – lua
3 – tol
4 – fā
5 – lim
6 – ono
7 – fit
8 – va
9 – iva
10 – fulu
Informal Samoan follows a similar pattern as formal Samoan when expressing numbers beyond 10. Simply combine the word for tens with the simplified word for units. For instance, 21 would be “luafulu ma sa,” 36 would be “tolufulu ma ono,” and so forth.
Regional Variations
Samoan is spoken in several regions, including Samoa (formerly Western Samoa) and American Samoa. While there may be slight variations in pronunciation and vocabulary, the basic numbers remain consistent. The examples provided here are widely understood throughout the Samoan-speaking community.
Additional Tips and Examples
Learning Samoan numbers becomes easier with some additional tips and examples. Here are a few to help you grasp the language more effectively:
- Tip #1: Practice pronouncing each number carefully. Pay attention to the unique sounds and stress patterns in Samoan.
- Tip #2: Counting objects or practicing in real-life situations can enhance your grasp of Samoan numbers.
- Tip #3: Use online resources, language apps, or find language exchange partners to practice your Samoan number skills.
- Example #1: If you want to say “I have five bananas,” you can say “E i ai lima o natua a’u” in Samoan.
- Example #2: To ask “How old are you?” you can say “O le a le tausaga o oe?”
- Example #3: When telling someone the time, you might say “O le itula e vala’au i le lua taimi” (It is two o’clock).
Remember, learning a new language takes time and practice, so be patient with yourself. Embrace any opportunities to immerse yourself in the Samoan language and culture, as it will greatly enhance your understanding and appreciation of the numbers and beyond.
We hope this comprehensive guide on how to say numbers in Samoan has been helpful to you! Happy learning and exploring the beautiful language of Gagana Samoa!
