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dunong

dúnong with stress marks

intelligence; technical skill

noun DU-nong Native origin Less Common

Usage Note

Dunong is a highly valued concept in Filipino culture, encompassing both intellectual knowledge and the practical wisdom or craft skill acquired through lived experience — it goes beyond formal schooling. The proverb associating dunong with wealth reflects its status as a form of capital. Related forms include marunong (knowledgeable) and karunungam (collective wisdom).

Examples

Beginner

" Marami siyang dunong. "

Natural Translation

He has a lot of intelligence.

Literal Translation

Many his intelligence.

Intermediate

" Puno ng dunong ang matanda. "

Natural Translation

The old person is full of intelligence.

Literal Translation

Full of intelligence the old-person.

Advanced

" Ang tunay na dunong ay hindi lamang nakukuha sa paaralan kundi sa karanasan sa buhay. "

Natural Translation

True intelligence isn't gained only in school but through life experience.

Literal Translation

The true intelligence is not only gotten in school but in experience in life.

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