istorbo
istórbo with stress marks
disturb; bother
Usage Note
Istorbo is a loanword from Spanish estorbo, functioning as both a noun for a nuisance or disturbance and a verb root for the act of bothering someone. It is deeply embedded in everyday speech. The self-deprecating use — expressing reluctance to be an istorbo — reflects the Filipino value of pakikisama and the cultural discomfort with imposing on others.
Examples
" Ayaw kong maging istorbo. "
Natural Translation
I don't want to be a bother.
Literal Translation
Dislike I become disturbance.
" Huwag kang istorbo sa trabaho. "
Natural Translation
Don't be a disturbance to the work.
Literal Translation
Do-not you disturb in-the work.
" Pasensya na kung istorbo ako, pero kailangan ko lang itanong kung saan ang pinakamalapit na ospital. "
Natural Translation
Sorry if I'm a bother, but I just need to ask where the nearest hospital is.
Literal Translation
Sorry if disturbance I, but need I just ask where the nearest linker hospital.
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