balisang-balisa
balisang-balísá with stress marks
extremely worried
From root: balisa
Usage Note
Balisang-balisa is an intensified reduplicated form of balisa, expressing extreme or overwhelming anxiety. Reduplication in Tagalog typically amplifies the base meaning. This form is used when someone is in a state of near-panic or acute distress, not merely mildly worried.
Examples
" Balisang-balisa ako sa eksam. "
Natural Translation
I am extremely worried about the exam.
Literal Translation
Extremely-worried I about-the exam.
" Balisang-balisa ang ina habang wala ang kanyang anak. "
Natural Translation
The mother was extremely worried while his/her child was away.
Literal Translation
Extremely-worried the mother while away the his/her child.
" Balisang-balisa ang mga magulang habang naghihintay ng balita tungkol sa operasyon ng kanilang panganay. "
Natural Translation
The parents were extremely worried while waiting for news about the operation of their eldest child.
Literal Translation
Extremely-worried the parents while waiting of news about the operation of-the their eldest.
Tagalog builds thousands of words from a few hundred roots.
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