Basic Words

1. Ioe

   Yes

   Usage

   Simple affirmative. Nodding while you say it removes any doubt

2. Leai

   No

   Usage

   Simple negative. Also used to turn down offers and street vendors

3. Fa'amolemole

   Please

   Usage

   Add it to any request. Combined with pointing it works almost anywhere

4. Fa'afetai

   Thank you

   Usage

   The single most useful word. Use it after paying or being given directions

5. Tulou

   Excuse me

   Usage

   To get a stranger's attention, or when passing in front of someone

   Grammar Note

   "Tulou" is obligatory when passing in front of or stepping over a seated person — the single most important courtesy word in Samoa.

6. Fa'amalie atu

   Sorry

   Usage

   A real apology: after bumping into someone or making a mistake

   Grammar Note

   "Fa'amalie atu" is the proper phrase for apologising when you are at fault.

7. 'Ua lelei

   It's OK / I'm fine

   Usage

   Reassures someone who is worried, and softly declines an offer

8. Ou te lē malamalama

   I don't understand

   Usage

   Say it when you miss what was said; it prompts them to rephrase

9. 'Ua ou malamalama

   I understand

   Usage

   Confirms you followed the explanation and the conversation can move on

10. 'Ua uma

    I'm finished / Done

    Usage

    Signals you have finished a meal, a form, or a payment

11. Fa'amolemole fa'atali

    Please wait

    Usage

    Use it while you dig out your wallet or wait for a travel companion

12. Fa'atali sina taimi

    Just a moment

    Usage

    For a few seconds only — at a counter or on the phone

13. E to'atasi le tagata matua

    One adult, please

    Usage

    At a ticket window or entrance gate when stating your party size

14. E le'i buka a'u

    I don't have a reservation

    Usage

    The first thing to say when walking into a hotel or restaurant unannounced

    Grammar Note

    "Buka" is a loan from English "book" (to reserve).

15. 'Ua ou buka

    I have a reservation

    Usage

    Say it at reception before giving your name; show the booking if you have it

16. Fa'amolemole fesoasoani mai

    Please help me

    Usage

    Shout it in an emergency — it is meant to draw attention fast

17. Toe fai fa'amolemole

    Once more, please

    Usage

    For asking someone to repeat; pairs naturally with “I don't understand”

18. Tautala lemu fa'amolemole

    Please speak slowly

    Usage

    When the speed is the problem rather than the words; most people oblige

19. E itiiti sa'u tautala

    I speak a little

    Usage

    Say it early; people then choose simpler words and slow down

20. E te tautala fa'aperetania?

    Do you speak English?

    Usage

    For complicated business — check whether you share a language first

21. tagata

    Person

    Usage

    For indicating people, e.g. how many

22. fafine

    Woman / female

    Usage

    For indicating female, e.g. at a toilet or counter

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