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mala-kalabaw

carabao-like

adjective ma-la-ka-la-BAW DERIVED Rare
Illustration of the root word "kalabaw" (water buffalo)
Illustration from root: kalabaw

From root: kalabaw

Usage Note

Mala-kalabaw describes a person who possesses immense physical strength or a tireless work ethic. For example, mala-kalabaw ang kaniyang katawan means his physique is as strong as a carabao.

Examples

Beginner

" Mala-kalabaw siyang magtrabaho. "

Natural Translation

He works like a carabao.

Literal Translation

Carabao-like he work.

Intermediate

" Siya ay may lakas na mala-kalabaw. "

Natural Translation

He has the strength of a carabao.

Literal Translation

He has strength that is carabao-like.

Advanced

" Dahil mala-kalabaw ang sipag ng aking ama, kaya niyang magbungkal ng buong bukid mula umaga hanggang gabi. "

Natural Translation

Because my father's diligence is carabao-like, he can till the entire field from morning until night.

Literal Translation

Because carabao-like the diligence of my father, can he till of whole field from morning until night.

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Word family

kalabaw has 3 related forms built from the same root.

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