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kilig

kilíg with stress marks

shudder; thrill of affection, butterflies in stomach

noun adjective ki-LIG Native origin Common
Illustration of "kilig" (shudder; thrill of affection, butterflies in stomach)

Usage Note

Kilig is a uniquely Filipino concept that describes the giddy, heart-fluttering excitement felt during a romantic moment — a crush walking by, a sweet gesture, or a romantic scene in a drama. It has gained international recognition as a culturally specific emotion that English has no single equivalent for.

Examples

Beginner

" Sobrang kilig ko sa kanya. "

Natural Translation

I'm so giddy over him.

Literal Translation

Very thrill my to him.

Intermediate

" Huwag mong itago ang iyong kilig. "

Natural Translation

Do not hide your thrill of affection.

Literal Translation

Do-not you hide the your thrill-of-affection.

Advanced

" Tuwing pinapanood namin ang lumang teleserye, hindi mapigilan ng aking ate ang kilig tuwing nagkikita ang dalawang bida. "

Natural Translation

Whenever we watch the old TV series, my older sister can't help the giddy excitement every time the two leads meet.

Literal Translation

Whenever watch we the old series, not can-stop of my older-sister the thrill every meet the two leads.

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