Usage Note
Kuya is used to address an older brother or any older male as a sign of respect, regardless of whether you are related. It is a common way to show politeness to strangers or acquaintances in daily social interactions.
Examples
" Nasaan ang kuya mo? "
Natural Translation
Where is your older brother?
Literal Translation
Where the older-brother your?
" Ang kuya ko ay matangkad. "
Natural Translation
My older brother is tall.
Literal Translation
The older brother I is tall.
" Tinawag kong kuya ang lalaking tumulong sa akin kahit hindi namin siya kakilala. "
Natural Translation
I called the man who helped me "kuya" even though we don't know him.
Literal Translation
Called I older-brother the man that helped to me even-though not we him acquainted.
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