Is the Samoan language reduplication based?

Yes, Samoan is a reduplication-based language, meaning it uses reduplication (repeating parts of a word) to form new words or change the meaning of existing words.

Here are some examples of how reduplication is used in Samoan:

* Pluralization:

* Tama (child) becomes Tama'i (children)

* Aso (day) becomes Aso'i (days)

* Intensification:

* Malie (good) becomes Malielie (very good)

* Tele (big) becomes Teletele (very big)

* Diminutive:

* Tama (child) becomes Tama'iti (little child)

* Pese (song) becomes Pese'ese (little song)

* Other grammatical functions:

* Reduplication can also indicate ongoing action, habitual action, or completeness.

The specific meaning and function of reduplication depend on the context and the specific word being used.

Overall, reduplication is a fundamental part of Samoan grammar and helps create a variety of meanings and nuances in the language.