T-language vs K-language
Understanding the formal and colloquial registers of Samoan.
The Two Registers of Samoan
Samoan has two distinct pronunciation registers that speakers switch between depending on the social context.
Tautala Lelei (T-Language)
The formal register used in:
- Church services and religious contexts
- Traditional ceremonies and formal speeches
- Written materials (books, newspapers, official documents)
- School instruction
- Radio and television broadcasts
Tautala Leaga (K-Language)
The colloquial register used in:
- Casual conversations with friends and family
- Informal gatherings
- Everyday marketplace interactions
- Social media and text messages (increasingly)
Sound Correspondences
| T-Language | K-Language | Example (T → K) |
|---|---|---|
| t | k | teine → keine (girl) |
| n | g | tagata → kagaka (person) |
| r | l | vari → vali (paint) |
Practice This Rule
Interactive exercises are coming soon! Check back for:
- Fill-in-the-blank practice
- Multiple choice questions
- Translation exercises