bugtong
bugtóng with stress marks
riddle; only one
Also means
As an adjective, bugtong means the only one — as in 'bugtong na anak' (only child).
Usage Note
Bugtong as a noun refers to a riddle or word puzzle, a traditional form of Filipino verbal folk art. As an adjective it means sole or only. The riddling tradition — 'Bugtong-bugtong' — is a beloved pastime passed down through generations in Filipino homes and schools.
Examples
" Ang hirap ng bugtong na ito. "
Natural Translation
This riddle is so hard.
Literal Translation
The difficulty of riddle this.
" Sino ang makakasagot ng bugtong na ito? "
Natural Translation
Who can answer this riddle?
Literal Translation
Who the can-answer the riddle this?
" Tuwing gabi ay nagbibigay si lolo ng bugtong sa amin, at ang unang makasagot ay tumatanggap ng matamis na gantimpala. "
Natural Translation
Every night grandpa gives us a riddle, and the first to answer receives a sweet reward.
Literal Translation
Every night gives the grandpa of riddle to us, and the first can-answer receives of sweet reward.
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