kaaba-aba
wretched; miserable; pathetic
From root: aba
Usage Note
Kaaba-aba is used to describe a person or a situation that is extremely pitiful or in a low, miserable state. It is often used in literature or formal speech to evoke deep sympathy.
Examples
" Kaaba-aba ang kanilang buhay. "
Natural Translation
Their life is wretched.
Literal Translation
Wretched the their life.
" Kaaba-aba ang kalagayan nila. "
Natural Translation
Their situation is wretched.
Literal Translation
Wretched the situation theirs.
" Tuwing naaalala niya ang kaaba-abang kalagayan ng mga ulilang bata, hindi niya mapigilan ang pagluha sa labis na awa. "
Natural Translation
Whenever she remembers the wretched condition of the orphaned children, she cannot hold back her tears out of deep pity.
Literal Translation
Every-time remembers she the wretched condition of the orphaned children, not she can-stop the crying in extreme pity.
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