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hasa-hasa

short-bodied mackerel (fish)

noun HA-sa HA-sa Native origin Less Common

Usage Note

Hasa-hasa is a type of small mackerel (Rastrelliger brachysoma) common in Philippine waters and markets, affordable and popular in Filipino households where it is often grilled, fried, or used in sinigang. The reduplicated name is typical of many Tagalog fish and animal names.

Examples

Beginner

" Bumili kami ng hasa-hasa. "

Natural Translation

We bought some short-bodied mackerel.

Literal Translation

Bought we of short-bodied-mackerel.

Intermediate

" Masarap ang hasa-hasa kapag prito. "

Natural Translation

The short-bodied mackerel is delicious when fried.

Literal Translation

Delicious the short-bodied-mackerel when fried.

Advanced

" Tuwing Sabado, namimili ang nanay ng sariwang hasa-hasa sa palengke para iprito o iluto sa sinigang. "

Natural Translation

Every Saturday, mom buys fresh short-bodied mackerel at the market to fry or cook in sinigang.

Literal Translation

Every Saturday, buying the mother of fresh short-bodied-mackerel at-the market to fry or cook in sinigang.

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