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kandili

kandilì with stress marks

nurture, care, protection

noun verb kan-di-LI Native origin Rare

Usage Note

Kandili expresses the tender act of nurturing, sheltering, and looking after someone who is vulnerable — a child, an elderly person, or anyone in need of care. It conveys warmth and devotion beyond mere duty. The word is used in poetic and formal registers to celebrate caregiving and is sometimes found in lullabies and literature honoring mothers.

Examples

Beginner

" Mahalaga ang kandili ng ina. "

Natural Translation

A mother's care is important.

Literal Translation

Important the nurture of mother.

Intermediate

" Ang kandili ng diyos ay totoo. "

Natural Translation

God's protection is real.

Literal Translation

The protection of god is true.

Advanced

" Sa ilalim ng mapagmahal na kandili ng kanyang lola, lumaki ang batang malusog at puno ng tiwala sa sarili. "

Natural Translation

Under the loving care of his grandmother, the child grew up healthy and full of self-confidence.

Literal Translation

Under of loving that nurture of his grandmother, grew the child healthy and full of trust in self.

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