Yawa!
Yáwa! with stress marks
expression of irritation (Devil!)
Usage Note
Yawa! is a strong exclamation of frustration, surprise, or anger originating from the Visayan word for 'devil', and has migrated into Tagalog colloquial speech, particularly among younger Filipinos and in urban areas. It is considered vulgar or offensive in formal settings and should be avoided around elders or in professional contexts.
Examples
" Yawa! Nahulog ang baso. "
Natural Translation
Damn! The glass fell.
Literal Translation
Devil! Fell the glass.
" Yawa! Nakalimutan ko ang aking susi sa bahay. "
Natural Translation
Devil! I forgot my house key.
Literal Translation
Devil! Forgot I the my key at-the house.
" Yawa! Akala ko ay nakuha ko na ang trabaho pero binigay pala nila sa iba. "
Natural Translation
Damn! I thought I had already gotten the job, but it turns out they gave it to someone else.
Literal Translation
Devil! Thought I is got I already the job but gave apparently they to other.
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