From root: ilan
Usage Note
Iilan is an emphatic form of ilan, stressing that the number in question is smaller than expected or hoped for — closer to 'precious few' than 'a few'. The reduplication of the initial syllable intensifies the sense of scarcity. It often collocates with na lamang to underscore that only a diminishing quantity remains.
Examples
" Iilan na lang ang natira. "
Natural Translation
Only a few are left.
Literal Translation
A-few now only the remained.
" Iilan lang ang dumating. "
Natural Translation
Only a few arrived.
Literal Translation
A-few only the arrived.
" Sa daan-daang nag-aplay, iilan lamang ang tinanggap dahil napakahigpit ng pamantayan ng paaralan. "
Natural Translation
Of the hundreds who applied, only a precious few were accepted because the school's standards are very strict.
Literal Translation
In hundreds that applied, a-few only the accepted because very-strict the standard of school.
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ilan has 3 related forms built from the same root.
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