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bakaw

bákaw with stress marks

heron (bird)

noun BA-kaw Native origin Rare

Usage Note

Bakaw refers to the grey or purple heron, a large wading bird commonly found near rivers, lakes, and coastal mangroves in the Philippines. It is a familiar sight to rural Filipinos and appears in regional folklore. The bird is notable for its patient, still hunting posture while waiting for fish.

Examples

Beginner

" May bakaw sa pampang. "

Natural Translation

There is a heron on the bank.

Literal Translation

There-is heron at-the bank.

Intermediate

" Nakita namin ang isang bakaw na nakatayo sa gilid ng ilog. "

Natural Translation

We saw a heron standing at the edge of the river.

Literal Translation

Saw we the a heron that-standing at-the edge of-the river.

Advanced

" Tahimik na nakatayo ang bakaw sa mababaw na tubig habang naghihintay ng isdang lalapit sa kanya. "

Natural Translation

The heron stood silently in the shallow water while waiting for a fish to come near it.

Literal Translation

Quietly standing the heron at-the shallow water while waiting of fish that approach to it.

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