elo
The Samoan verb for 'stink' is elo.
The word elo is used to describe something that has a strong, unpleasant odor.
Meaning: have a strong bad smell (verb)
Did you know?
- If you describe a situation or an idea as elo, you are not talking about an odor, but suggesting that the situation is dishonest or corrupt.
- Samoan has distinct words for 'stink' depending on the source, such as specific terms for the smell of sweat versus the smell of rotting organic matter.
- While elo describes a bad smell, Samoans use the word manogi for a pleasant aroma, which specifically refers to the scent of flowers or perfume.
Examples in context
- Ua vali le itu o lenei aiga.This family's area smells bad.
- Elo le i'oa.The meat stinks.
- Elo tele lenei tura.This trash stinks a lot.
Example conversation
Tau and Losa are cleaning the kitchen.
- TauLosa, e elo le oga o le i'a.Losa, the fish pot stinks.
- LosaAe iai le soapu iina.But the soap is right there.
- TauFa'amalie le elo i le soapu.Fix the stink with the soap.
- LosaOu te lavea atu nei.I will wash it now.
