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hiwaga

hiwagâ with stress marks

mystery

noun hi-wa-GA Native origin Less Common

Usage Note

Hiwaga refers to something mysterious, enigmatic, or supernaturally puzzling. It is a rich literary word appearing in folklore, religious discourse, and poetry. The adjective 'mahiwaga' (mysterious) is far more commonly used in everyday speech, while hiwaga itself tends toward the formal or poetic.

Examples

Beginner

" Hiwaga ito sa akin. "

Natural Translation

This is a mystery to me.

Literal Translation

Mystery this to me.

Intermediate

" Maraming hiwaga ang nakatago sa kailaliman ng karagatan. "

Natural Translation

Many mysteries lie hidden in the depths of the ocean.

Literal Translation

Many mystery the hidden in-the depths of-the ocean.

Advanced

" Hanggang ngayon ay nananatiling hiwaga kung bakit bigla siyang naglaho nang walang paalam. "

Natural Translation

To this day it remains a mystery why she suddenly vanished without a word.

Literal Translation

Until now is remaining mystery why suddenly she vanished without farewell.

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