bilanggo
bilanggô with stress marks
prisoner
Usage Note
Bilanggo refers to a person imprisoned or held in detention. It is the common Tagalog term used across news, literature, and everyday speech — more neutral than 'preso' (from Spanish) which has a slightly more criminal connotation. It is also used figuratively for someone trapped in circumstances beyond their control.
Examples
" Tumakas ang bilanggo. "
Natural Translation
The prisoner escaped.
Literal Translation
Escaped the prisoner.
" Pinalaya ang ilang bilanggo pagkatapos ng matagal na paglilitis. "
Natural Translation
Several prisoners were released after a long trial.
Literal Translation
Released the some prisoners after-the long trial.
" Bagaman matagal nang nakakulong, umaasa pa rin ang bilanggo na balang araw ay makakalaya siya at makakauwi sa kanyang pamilya. "
Natural Translation
Although he has been jailed for a long time, the prisoner still hopes that someday he will be freed and able to return home to his family.
Literal Translation
Although long already imprisoned, hoping still the prisoner that someday will be freed he and able-to-go-home to his family.
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