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hunos-dili

hunos-dilì with stress marks

self-control, calmness, prudence

noun HU-nos di-LI Native origin Rare

Usage Note

Hunos-dili is a rare and somewhat archaic term describing inner calm, equanimity, or the composure to hold one's tongue and restrain one's emotions. It is associated with traditional Filipino values of restraint and self-control (related to the concept of hiya). The term appears in formal writing, proverbs, and older literature rather than everyday conversation.

Examples

Beginner

" Kailangan mo ng hunos-dili. "

Natural Translation

You need self-control.

Literal Translation

Need you of self-control.

Intermediate

" Kailangan natin ng hunos-dili sa usapan. "

Natural Translation

We need calmness in the conversation.

Literal Translation

Need we of calmness in conversation.

Advanced

" Sa gitna ng matinding galit, ang hunos-dili lamang ang makapagliligtas sa atin sa pagkakasala. "

Natural Translation

In the midst of intense anger, only self-control can save us from wrongdoing.

Literal Translation

In middle of intense anger, the self-control only the can-save to us from wrongdoing.

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