Polynesian Languages - Gagana Polenisia - Pasefika


Pasefika Polynesian Dictionary


Gagana Polenisia or Polynesian Languages

Polynesian languages identified with the cultures, people and Islands of Polynesia.

Polynesian languages inlcude Sāmoan language, Hawaiʻian language, Māori language, Tahitian language and Tongan language.

In studies of linguistics, Polynesian languages have been categorized within the Austronesian family of languages.

Linguistic classification of Polynesian languages

  • Austronesian
  • Malayo-Polynesian
  • Oceanic
  • Central Pacific
  • Polynesian

Gagana Sāmoa

Gagana Sāmoa or the Sāmoan language is one of many Polynesian languages identified with the culture, people and Islands of Sāmoa.

The language and oratory continues to be the primary form of education, communication, and documentation.

It is worth noting that there are multiple forms that the langauge may be written or spoken.

The language includes a "t style" (tautala lelei) and "k style" (tautala leaga) in which the consonants t and k and interchanged.

There is also the standard form of the language and a respectful protocol form of the language (gagana faʻaaloalo). Gagana faʻaaloalo is used when communicating with or amongst people of prestige and/or rank.

In studies of linguistics, Sāmoan language has been categorized within the Austronesian family of languages.

Linguistic classification of Sāmoan language

  • Austronesian
  • Malayo-Polynesian
  • Oceanic
  • Central Pacific
  • Polynesian
  • Samoic
  • Sāmoan