Usage Note
Kabila indicates the opposite side — of a street, an argument, a room, or a river — and is very common in both spoken and written Tagalog for spatial reference or contrast. It also appears in the expression sa kabila ng lahat, meaning despite everything, making it a versatile word beyond simple direction.
Examples
" Nasa kabila ng kalye ang tindahan. "
Natural Translation
The store is on the other side of the street.
Literal Translation
At the other-side of-the street the store.
" Nakatira siya sa kabila ng kalsada. "
Natural Translation
He/She lives on the other side of the street.
Literal Translation
Living he/she in-the other-side of-the street.
" Sa kabila ng lahat ng pagsubok na dinanas niya, hindi siya sumuko at nanatiling matatag para sa kanyang pamilya. "
Natural Translation
Despite all the hardships she went through, she did not give up and remained strong for her family.
Literal Translation
At the-other-side of all of trials that endured she, not she surrendered and remained steadfast for to her family.
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