Usage Note
Alak is the general term for all alcoholic beverages, covering everything from beer to local spirits like lambanog. It is the central element of Filipino social drinking culture, commonly referred to as 'inuman'.
Examples
" Ayaw ko ng alak. "
Natural Translation
I don't want any liquor.
Literal Translation
Don't-want I of liquor.
" May alak sa salu-salo. "
Natural Translation
There's liquor at the gathering.
Literal Translation
There is liquor at the party.
" Bawal munang uminom ng alak ang tatay ko dahil may iniinom siyang gamot para sa kanyang puso. "
Natural Translation
My father isn't allowed to drink liquor for now because he's taking medicine for his heart.
Literal Translation
Forbidden first-to drink of liquor the father my because has taking he-that medicine for at his heart.
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