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gawa

gawâ with stress marks

work; accomplishment; made

noun verb ga-WA Native origin Common

Usage Note

Gawa is one of the most versatile and high-frequency roots in Tagalog. As a verb root, it underlies 'gawin' (to do/make), 'gumawa' (to work/create), and 'nagawa' (was able to do). As a noun it means work or creation. 'Gawa ng' is a common construction meaning 'made by' or 'the work of'. It reflects the Filipino cultural emphasis on industriousness.

Examples

Beginner

" Maganda ang gawa mo. "

Natural Translation

Your work is beautiful.

Literal Translation

Beautiful the work your.

Intermediate

" Kahanga-hanga ang gawa ng mga artisano. "

Natural Translation

The work of the artisans is admirable.

Literal Translation

Admirable the work of-the artisans.

Advanced

" Ang bawat gawa ng isang tao, malaki man o maliit, ay nagsasabi ng marami tungkol sa kanyang pagkatao at mga pinahahalagahan. "

Natural Translation

Every work of a person, whether big or small, says a lot about their character and values.

Literal Translation

The each work of a person, big though or small, tells of many about the his character and values.

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