karunungan
knowledge
From root: dunong
Usage Note
Karunungan is derived from dunong (wisdom, skill) and encompasses knowledge, wisdom, and learning. It is a highly valued concept in Filipino culture, appearing often in proverbs and formal speeches that emphasize education and wisdom over material wealth.
Examples
" Mahalaga ang karunungan. "
Natural Translation
Knowledge is important.
Literal Translation
Important the knowledge.
" Ang karunungan ay mas mahalaga kaysa kayamanan. "
Natural Translation
Knowledge is more valuable than wealth.
Literal Translation
The knowledge is more valuable than wealth.
" Ang karunungan na nakukuha sa karanasan ay madalas na mas matibay kaysa sa natutunan lamang sa libro. "
Natural Translation
The knowledge gained from experience is often more lasting than what is only learned from books.
Literal Translation
The knowledge that gotten at experience is often more durable than at learned only at book.
Tagalog builds thousands of words from a few hundred roots.
How Tagalog words workRelated Words
Explore Tagalog by topic
Free guides on grammar, vocabulary, and culture to take you past single-word lookups.

Mano Po and Filipino Etiquette: A Visitor's Guide
Mano po presses an elder's hand to your forehead as a blessing. Learn who to mano, how to lip-point, and the etiquette that wins over a Filipino family.

Tagalog Question Words: Ano, Sino, Saan & More
Tagalog question words like ano, sino, and saan need the right frame to work. Learn the ang-vs-pronoun rule, confusable pairs, and the ba particle with audio.

Na vs -ng in Tagalog: The Linker Rule Made Simple
When do you use na vs -ng in Tagalog? One simple rule, with clear examples, memory tips, and common mistakes explained for English-speaking beginners.

Tagalog Slang Guide: 20 Words You'll Hear on TikTok
Tagalog slang explained: lodi, petmalu, werpa, astig, chika and more. Decode Filipino TikTok comments, group chats, and pop culture with this practical guide.