gato
gató with stress marks
structurally weak due to decay
Usage Note
Gato describes wood, bamboo, or other building material that has become weakened through rot, termite damage, or prolonged moisture exposure. It is a practical term used when assessing the structural integrity of homes, particularly older wooden houses common in rural areas. Saying a post or floor is gato signals it needs urgent replacement.
Examples
" Gato na ang haligi. "
Natural Translation
The post is already weak with rot.
Literal Translation
Decayed already the post.
" Ang upuan ay gato na. "
Natural Translation
The chair is already structurally weak.
Literal Translation
The chair is decayed already.
" Kailangan nang palitan ang mga poste ng bahay dahil gato na ang karamihan sa mga ito. "
Natural Translation
The posts of the house need to be replaced because most of them are already structurally weak from rot.
Literal Translation
Need already replace the (plural) post of-the house because decayed already the most of (plural) this.
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