asam
asám with stress marks
yearning, longing
Usage Note
Asam expresses a deep yearning or hopeful desire for something, often something not yet attained. It is closely related to 'pag-asa' (hope) and 'hangad' (aspiration). The word carries an emotional weight — it is more than mere want; it suggests longing with anticipation. It is used in poetry, literature, and heartfelt personal expression.
Examples
" Asam ko ang kapayapaan. "
Natural Translation
I yearn for peace.
Literal Translation
Yearning my the peace.
" Puno ng asam ang puso ko. "
Natural Translation
My heart is full of yearning.
Literal Translation
Full of yearning the heart my.
" Matagal nang asam ng buong pamilya na muling magsama-sama sa Pasko matapos ang ilang taong pagkakahiwalay. "
Natural Translation
For a long time the whole family has yearned to be together again at Christmas after several years apart.
Literal Translation
Long already yearning of whole family that again be-together at Christmas after the some years separation.
Tagalog builds thousands of words from a few hundred roots.
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