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Samoan Words for "Mean": Agavale, Evale, Gaogao, Mafaufau, Moamoa

Samoan has several terms for "mean," each with distinct nuances:

Word	Core Meaning	Context
Agavale	Cruel, harsh, unkind	Behavior toward others; can imply strict discipline if context suggests.
Evale	Arrogant, conceited, haughty	Attitude of superiority; related to agavale.
Gaogao	Rude, disrespectful, insolent	Breach of fa'aaloalo (respect), especially to elders/chiefs.
Mafaufau	Selfish, greedy, stingy	Withholding, not sharing (feava'ai — mutual care expected).
Moamoa	Angry, violent, fierce	Explosive temper; physical aggression. Also "ferocious" (animal).

Cultural Context

Fa'a Samoa (The Samoan Way): Centers on *fa'aaloalo* (respect), *alofa* (love/compassion), *tautua* (service). "Mean" behaviors violate core values.
Context is everything: A chief's sharp rebuke may be *agavale* to outsider but *fa'atonu* (corrective) within culture.
Public vs. Private: *Gaogao* in public shames the family (*aiga*); *mafaufau* at a feast is grave offense.

Usage Tip

If describing a person's character: *Ua agavale le tagata* (The person is cruel). For a specific act: *Ua gaogao lou mea na fai* (What you did was rude).

Samoan emotional vocabulary is relational — "mean" is measured against communal norms.

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