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awa

awà with stress marks

pity; compassion; mercy

noun verb a-WA Native origin Less Common
Illustration of "awa" (pity; compassion; mercy)

Usage Note

Awà expresses deep sympathy or mercy and is central to the common cultural phrase 'sa awà ng Diyos' (by God’s mercy). It also serves as the root for the verb 'maawa,' frequently used when pleading for compassion or feeling pity for someone in a difficult situation.

Examples

Beginner

" Naawa ako sa pulubi. "

Natural Translation

I felt pity for the beggar.

Literal Translation

Felt-pity I for beggar.

Intermediate

" Nagpakita siya ng awa. "

Natural Translation

He showed compassion.

Literal Translation

Showed he of pity.

Advanced

" Dahil sa awa niya sa mga batang walang makain, ibinigay niya ang kaniyang baon sa kanila. "

Natural Translation

Out of his compassion for the children who had nothing to eat, he gave them his own packed meal.

Literal Translation

Because of pity his for the children no will-eat, gave he the his packed-meal to them.

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