Here’s how to tell time in Samoan: When someone asks ‘Ua ta le fia? or It has struck the how many…basically what time is it
The first sentece structure, let’s use the hour of 2. ‘Ua ta le lua, ‘Ua kuata le lua, ‘Ua afa le lua
‘Ua is the present tense marker, le means the, and lua is two.
ta means to strike, kuata is quarter, and afa means half
It has struck the 2, It is a quarter the two, It’s the half the two
Next if we’re talking about a time reference after 2, we’d say Its now 10 minutes after 2. ‘Ua sefulu minute e te’a ai le lua. Its now 10 minutes after the two.
If we’re talking about a time reference before 2, we’re saying that the time is moving to our reference of 2. So if it’s 1:54, we’d say “Its now before 6 minutes to the 2″ ‘Ua toe ono minute i le lua”.
You’ll hear other abbreviated ways of telling time, but these are the basics.
Telling time in Samoan involves a combination of traditional and modern methods, reflecting both cultural practices and global influences. From using traditional timekeeping systems based on natural phenomena to adopting standardized hours and minutes, Samoan speakers have adapted their methods of telling time over time. This essay explores the various ways in which time is expressed in the Samoan language, highlighting both traditional and contemporary approaches.
Traditional Timekeeping Systems:
- Sunrise and Sunset: Historically, Samoans used the position of the sun to gauge time. Sunrise (tula’i) marked the beginning of the day, while sunset (tuloto) signaled its end. These natural events provided reference points for activities and gatherings within the community.
- Phases of the Moon: The phases of the moon also played a role in timekeeping. Specific lunar phases were associated with certain activities or events, such as planting or fishing. For example, the full moon (mātā’utu) was often a time for communal celebrations and ceremonies.
Contemporary Time Expressions:
- Standardized Hours and Minutes: With the introduction of Western timekeeping standards, Samoans began using hours and minutes to express time. This system divides the day into 24 hours, each consisting of 60 minutes. Samoan speakers commonly use this format, especially in formal or business settings.
- Borrowed Vocabulary: Many time-related terms in Samoan are borrowed from English. For example, itiiti (hour) and minute (mee-noo-teh/minute) are commonly used to denote specific increments of time. While these terms may not have direct equivalents in traditional Samoan culture, they have become integrated into everyday language.
How to Tell Time in Samoan:
- Using Hours and Minutes: To express time in hours and minutes, Samoan speakers typically follow the format of stating the hour followed by the minutes. For example:
- O le lima itiiti – Five o’clock
- O le valu itiiti ma le liva – Eight thirty
- Indicating AM and PM: Samoan speakers may use the terms tinitini (morning) and apoapo (afternoon/evening) to distinguish between AM and PM. For example:
- O le sefulu ma le tinitini – Ten in the morning
- O le lima ma le apoapo – Five in the afternoon/evening
- Referring to Specific Times: When referring to specific times, such as appointments or events, Samoan speakers may use phrases like i le taimi (at the time of) or i le ata (in the morning). For example:
- O le telefoni i le taimi o le sefulu ma le tolu – The phone call at ten thirty
- O le telefoni i le ata – The phone call in the morning
Cultural Significance:
- Connection to Nature: While modern timekeeping methods have been adopted, many Samoans maintain a strong connection to traditional timekeeping systems based on natural phenomena. This connection to nature reflects cultural values and a deep appreciation for the environment.
- Community and Ritual: Time in Samoan culture is often intertwined with community activities and rituals. Events such as church services, family gatherings, and cultural ceremonies are scheduled based on both traditional and modern timekeeping practices, emphasizing the importance of collective experience and participation.
Conclusion:
Telling time in the Samoan language involves a blend of traditional and contemporary methods, reflecting the cultural heritage and evolving practices of the Samoan people. From using natural phenomena to gauge time to adopting standardized hours and minutes, Samoan speakers navigate time in diverse ways, maintaining a connection to both tradition and modernity. By understanding the various ways in which time is expressed in Samoan, individuals can engage more deeply with Samoan culture and language, fostering appreciation and understanding within the broader community.
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