From root: hirap
Usage Note
Mahirap is one of the most frequently used adjectives in Filipino, covering both intellectual difficulty and economic hardship. Its dual meaning reflects a cultural conflation of struggle and poverty rooted in the root noun hirap. Context — task, person, or situation — disambiguates which sense is intended.
Examples
" Mahirap ang pagsusulit. "
Natural Translation
The exam is difficult.
Literal Translation
Difficult the exam.
" Mahirap intindihin ang leksyon. "
Natural Translation
The lesson is difficult to understand.
Literal Translation
Difficult to-understand the lesson.
" Kahit mahirap ang trabaho niya, hindi siya sumusuko dahil gusto niyang tulungan ang kanyang pamilya. "
Natural Translation
Even though her job is difficult, she doesn't give up because she wants to help her family.
Literal Translation
Even difficult the job her, not she gives-up because wants she to-help the her family.
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hirap has 6 related forms built from the same root.
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