Usage Note
Kabado is derived from kaba (nervousness, palpitation) and describes a state of anxiety or nervousness. It is widely used in informal speech for performance situations — presentations, dates, and competitions — and is more colloquial than the formal alternatives balisa or nag-aalalang.
Examples
" Kabado ako ngayon. "
Natural Translation
I'm nervous right now.
Literal Translation
Nervous I now.
" Kabado si Juan bago ang kanyang unang tanggapan. "
Natural Translation
Juan was nervous before his/her first job interview.
Literal Translation
Nervous Juan before the his/her first interview.
" Kahit gaano pa siya naghanda, kabado pa rin si Maria habang naghihintay na tawagin sa entablado. "
Natural Translation
No matter how much she prepared, Maria was still nervous while waiting to be called to the stage.
Literal Translation
Even however still she prepared, nervous still also Maria while waiting to be-called to-the stage.
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