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ipit

ipít with stress marks

press from two sides; clip

verb noun i-PIT Native origin Less Common

Also means

As a noun, ipit refers to a clip or clamp used to hold things together, such as a hair clip or a paper clip.

Usage Note

Ipit describes the action of squeezing or clamping something between two surfaces. As a noun it names the clip itself. Filipinos use 'ipit ng buhok' for a hair clip and 'na-ipit' as an expression for being caught in a difficult situation between two opposing forces — a very common metaphorical use.

Examples

Beginner

" Na-ipit ang daliri ko. "

Natural Translation

My finger got caught.

Literal Translation

Got-pressed the finger my.

Intermediate

" Isang mabilis na ipit lang ito. "

Natural Translation

This is just a quick press.

Literal Translation

One fast that press only this.

Advanced

" Na-ipit ako sa gitna ng dalawang magkaibigan na nag-aaway, kaya hindi ko alam kung kanino ako kakampi. "

Natural Translation

I got caught in the middle of two quarreling friends, so I didn't know whose side to take.

Literal Translation

Got-caught I in middle of two friends that quarreling, so not I know whose I side-with.

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