barkada
barkáda with stress marks
group of friends
Usage Note
Barkada is one of the most culturally significant words in Filipino social vocabulary, referring to a close-knit peer group of friends who regularly spend time together. Derived from Spanish barcada (boatload), it captures the tight bonds of Filipino friendship culture. The barkada is central to social life from adolescence onward, and peer influence within the barkada is a recognized factor in Filipino sociology and psychology.
Examples
" Kasama ko ang barkada ko. "
Natural Translation
My friends are with me.
Literal Translation
With me the group-of-friends my.
" Masaya ang aking barkada. "
Natural Translation
My group of friends is happy.
Literal Translation
Happy the my group-of-friends.
" Kahit matagal na kaming nagtapos sa kolehiyo, nagkikita pa rin kami ng barkada ko kada Pasko para magkuwentuhan. "
Natural Translation
Even though we graduated from college a long time ago, my friends and I still meet up every Christmas to catch up.
Literal Translation
Even-though long-already we graduated in college, meet still we of group-of-friends my every Christmas to tell-stories.
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