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damay

damáy with stress marks

help; sympathize; involve

noun verb da-MAY Native origin Less Common

Usage Note

Damay has a dual nature: it can mean compassionate involvement — 'nakikiramay' (to offer condolences) — or being unwillingly dragged into a situation — 'huwag akong idamay' (don't involve me). Filipino communal culture prizes the first sense; the second appears in disputes where someone protests being unfairly blamed or entangled.

Examples

Beginner

" Salamat sa iyong damay. "

Natural Translation

Thank you for your sympathy.

Literal Translation

Thanks in your sympathy.

Intermediate

" Salamat sa inyong damay. "

Natural Translation

Thank you for your sympathy.

Literal Translation

Thanks in your (plural) sympathize.

Advanced

" Sa oras ng aming kalungkutan, hindi namin malilimutan ang damay ng mga kapitbahay at kaibigan. "

Natural Translation

In our time of grief, we will not forget the compassion of our neighbors and friends.

Literal Translation

In time of our sadness, not by-us will-forget the sympathy of the neighbors and friends.

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