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“Beyond the Ordinary: A Dive into Lesser-Known Filipino Vocabulary”

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Language, like culture, is a vibrant tapestry woven with unique threads that reflect the essence of a people. In the Philippines, a country known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse linguistic landscape, this tapestry is adorned with a plethora of words that carry stories of tradition, history, and identity.


While many are familiar with commonly used Filipino words such as “mabuhay” (welcome) or “kumusta” (how are you), there exists a treasure trove of lesser-known words that offer a glimpse into the depth and intricacy of the Filipino language. These words, often laden with nuanced meanings and cultural significance, provide a window into the soul of the Filipino people.


In this article, we embark on a linguistic journey to explore 10 uncommon Filipino words. Each word is a gem waiting to be discovered, revealing layers of meaning that resonate with the Filipino experience. From expressions of affection to reflections of nature’s beauty, these words paint a vivid picture of the Filipino worldview, inviting us to delve deeper into the linguistic tapestry of the Philippines.


Here are 10 Uncommon Filipino Words:


1. Duyog

  • Definition: An occasion when the sun looks like it is completely or partially covered with a dark circle because the moon is between the sun and the Earth.

  • Example Sentence: “Marami ang namamangha sa duyog.”

  • English Translation: “Many are amazed by the eclipse.”

 

2. Sulatroniko

  • Definition: Refers to e-mail, a system for sending messages electronically from one computer to another.

  • Example Sentence: “Ako’y nagpadala sa sulatroniko ng aking mensahe sa aking guro.”

  • English Translation: “I sent my message to my teacher via e-mail.”

 

3. Labaha

  • Definition: A razor, a keen-edged cutting instrument for shaving or cutting hair.

  • Example Sentence: “Ginamit ko ang labaha sa CR upang ipang-ahit sa aking balbas.”

  • English Translation: “I used the razor in the bathroom to shave my beard.”

 

4. Durungawan

  • Definition: A window, an opening in a building for admission of light and air, usually closed by glass casements or sashes.

  • Example Sentence: “Nakita ko sa aming durungawan ang isang napakagandang babae.”

  • English Translation: “I saw a very beautiful woman through our window.”

 

5. Kansunsilyo

  • Definition: Boxer shorts, men’s underwear characterized by a loose fit.

  • Example Sentence: “Ginamit ko ang bagong biniling kansunsilyo ng aking magulang.”

  • English Translation: “I wore the new boxer shorts my parents bought.”

 

6. Anluwage

  • Definition: A carpenter, a worker who builds or repairs wooden structures.

  • Example Sentence: “Ihanap mo ako ng anluwage na kayang gumawa ng lamesang pabilog para sa ating sala.”

  • English Translation: “Find a carpenter who can make a round table for our living room.”

 

7. Batlag

  • Definition: A car, a vehicle moving on wheels.

  • Example Sentence: “Nabangga ang aming minamanehong batlag kaninang umaga.”

  • English Translation: “Our car was hit this morning.”

 

8. Kalupi

  • Definition: A wallet, a container resembling a money wallet.

  • Example Sentence: “Nawala ng aking kaklase ang kanyang kalupi noong isang araw.”

  • English Translation: “My classmate lost his wallet the other day.”

 

9. Sambat

  • Definition: A fork, a common eating utensil with three or four stiff metal points attached to a handle.

  • Example Sentence: “Mas madaling kumain kung may hawak na sambat.”

  • English Translation: “It’s easier to eat when you have a fork.”

 

10. Pulot-Gata

  • Definition: Honeymoon, the period after a wedding when a couple spends time together.

  • Example Sentence: “Sa pulot-gata, nag-enjoy kami sa aming unang linggo bilang mag-asawa.”

  • English Translation: “During our honeymoon, we enjoyed our first week as a married couple.”

 

 


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