Caption:
Basically the difference between a class possessions and o class in Samoan
this will be the shortest simplest video. The main mistake you do not want to make is referring to your parents or God is “a” class. Not O la’u tina or o la’u tama, it’s lo’u tina, o lo’u tama, O lo tatou tama i le lagi. Throw in your grandparents and your brothers and sisters, I always refer to my spouse in O-class as well. This list right here comes right from doctor Hunkins book. These are all O-class possessions….lo’u, lou, lona, so’u, sou, sona and you say the type of possession.
A-class possessions are these. Anything disposable, relationships you choose, things, people, and situations you’re in charge of are all a-class…la’u, lau, lana, sa’u, sau, sana and then the type of possession.
In Samoan, possessive constructions are divided into two main classes: A-class and O-class. These classes determine the possessive pronouns and particles used, as well as the structure of possessive statements. Understanding the difference between A-class and O-class possessions is essential for mastering Samoan grammar and effectively expressing ownership or association. This essay explores the distinctions between A-class and O-class possessions, their usage, and their implications in Samoan language and culture.
A-Class Possessions
A-class possessions typically involve animate objects, including people, animals, and sometimes plants. They denote a closer, more intimate relationship between the possessor and the possessed object. A-class possessive pronouns are used to indicate ownership or association.
Characteristics of A-Class Possessions:
- Closer Relationship: A-class possessions often denote ownership or association with objects that are considered closer or more personal to the possessor. This may include family members, pets, or cherished possessions.
- Possessive Pronouns: A-class possessive pronouns include o’u (my), o le (his/her/its), o ta (our inclusive), and o ma (our exclusive).
- Particle a: The particle a is used in A-class possessive constructions to connect the possessor to the possessed object. It indicates a more direct relationship between the two.
Examples of A-Class Possessions:
- O le fale a ou teine (the house of my sister)
- O le ta’usala a le ali’i (the necklace of the chief)
- O’u ava a fānau (my children’s taro patch)
O-Class Possessions
O-class possessions typically involve inanimate objects or abstract concepts. They denote a more distant or general relationship between the possessor and the possessed object. O-class possessive pronouns and particles are used to indicate ownership or association.
Characteristics of O-Class Possessions:
- Distant Relationship: O-class possessions often denote ownership or association with objects that are considered more distant or less personal to the possessor. This may include possessions, places, or abstract concepts.
- Possessive Pronouns: O-class possessive pronouns include lou (your), ona (his/her/its), lā (their), and lāua (their two).
- Particle a or o: The particles a or o may be used in O-class possessive constructions, depending on the context. These particles indicate a less direct relationship between the possessor and the possessed object.
Examples of O-Class Possessions:
- O le fale o lo’u uo (the house of your friend)
- O le fanua o le ali’i (the land of the chief)
- Loulou agaga o lo’u atunu’u (your family’s spirits)
Key Differences between A-Class and O-Class Possessions:
- Nature of Possessed Objects: A-class possessions typically involve animate objects, while O-class possessions involve inanimate objects or abstract concepts.
- Degree of Relationship: A-class possessions denote a closer, more intimate relationship between the possessor and the possessed object, while O-class possessions denote a more distant or general relationship.
- Possessive Pronouns and Particles: A-class possessive pronouns and particles indicate a more direct relationship, while O-class possessive pronouns and particles indicate a less direct relationship.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between A-class and O-class possessions is crucial for accurately expressing ownership or association in Samoan. A-class possessions typically involve animate objects and denote a closer relationship, while O-class possessions typically involve inanimate objects or abstract concepts and denote a more distant relationship. By mastering the usage of A-class and O-class possessive constructions, learners of Samoan can effectively navigate grammar and express nuances of ownership and association in their communication.
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