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kalkal

kálkal with stress marks

stir up, dig

verb noun KAL-kal Native origin Less Common

Usage Note

Kalkal means to dig through, rummage, or stir up the contents of a container or pile, and is commonly used when someone searches through a bag, drawer, or heap of objects. The reduplicated form reinforces the thorough, repetitive nature of the rummaging, and figuratively kalkal is also used for digging up old issues or grievances.

Examples

Beginner

" Huwag mong kalkalin ang bag ko. "

Natural Translation

Don't rummage through my bag.

Literal Translation

Don't you rummage the bag my.

Intermediate

" Ang kalkal ng aso sa basura ay madumi. "

Natural Translation

The dog's stirring up of the trash is dirty.

Literal Translation

The stir-up of dog in-the trash is dirty.

Advanced

" Tuwing nag-aaway sila, kinakalkal ng asawa niya ang mga lumang sama ng loob na dapat sana ay tapos na. "

Natural Translation

Every time they fight, his wife digs up old grievances that should have already been settled.

Literal Translation

Every fight they, dug-up by-the spouse his/her the old hurt of inside that should already be done already.

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