Idioms and Cultural Expressions Flashcards
What does ‘Balat sibuyas’ mean in English?
Overly sensitive (literally, onion-skinned)
“Balat-sibuyas” is a Tagalog idiom that literally translates to “onion skin.”
Meaning:
It is used to describe someone who is overly sensitive or easily hurt emotionally, much like how the skin of an onion is thin and fragile.
Usage in Context:
- Describing a sensitive person:
“Ang balat-sibuyas niya, konting biro lang, nasasaktan na.”
(He/She is so sensitive; just a little joke and they get hurt.)
- Expressing annoyance:
“Huwag kang maging balat-sibuyas. Biro lang iyon.”
(Don’t be so sensitive. It was just a joke.)
Translate to Tagalog: ‘The world is small.’
Maliit ang mundo.
What does ‘Bahala na’ express?
Come what may or leave it to fate. Whatever happens, happens. It is what it is
How do you say ‘To each his own (life)’ or ‘Everyone has their own life’ in Tagalog?
Kanya-kanyang buhay.
The phrase “Kanya-kanyang buhay” can be translated as:
“Each to their own life” or “Everyone has their own life.”
Breakdown:
- “Kanya-kanyang”:
“Kanya” – His/Her/Their (possessive pronoun)
Repeated and linked with “-kanyang” to imply individuality or “each one’s own.”
Literally: “Each their own.”
- “Buhay”:
Life or way of living.
Context and Usage:
The phrase is often used to express the idea that everyone has their own responsibilities, priorities, or paths in life. It can also imply that people should focus on their own matters rather than interfering with others.
Example Sentences:
- “Kanya-kanyang buhay tayo.”
(We each have our own lives to live.) - “Sa huli, kanya-kanyang buhay talaga.”
(In the end, everyone has their own life.)
What does ‘Hampás-lupà’ mean?
Poor or lowly person (literally, earth-beater).
“Hampas-lupa”
Literal: One who strikes the ground.
Meaning: Poor, destitute, or worthless person.
Usage: Often derogatory.
Example: “Hampas-lupa ka lang!” (You’re just a nobody!)
Translate to Tagalog: ‘It’s raining cats and dogs.’
Bumubúhos ang ulán.
“Bumubuhos ang ulan” translates to:
“The rain is pouring” or “It is raining heavily.”
Breakdown:
Bumubuhos – Pouring (present tense of the verb buhos, meaning “to pour”).
Ang ulan – The rain.
What does ‘Kapag maikli ang kumot, matutong mamaluktot’ mean?
When the blanket is short, learn to curl up (adapt to your circumstances).
Translate to Tagalog: ‘Actions speak louder than words.’
Ang gawa ang mas mahalaga kaysa salita.
What does ‘Nasa Diyos ang awa, nasa tao ang gawa’ mean?
God grants mercy, but man must work for it.
How do you say ‘Blood is thicker than water’ in Tagalog?
Ang dugo ay mas matimbang kaysa tubig.
What does ‘Itaga mo sa bato’ mean?
Mark my words (literally, carve it in stone).
Translate to Tagalog: ‘Better late than never.’
Huli man daw at magaling, naihahabol din.
What does ‘Binibiro lang kita’ mean in English?
I’m just teasing you.
How do you say ‘A blessing in disguise’ in Tagalog?
Biyaya na nakatago sa kasawian.
What does ‘Pagsapit ng dilim’ mean in English?
When night falls.
