laban
labán with stress marks
conflict; against; opposed; fight
Usage Note
Laban is one of the most versatile and frequently used words in Tagalog. As a noun it means a fight or match; as a preposition/adverb it means 'against'. It is a rallying cry in Filipino sports culture ('laban!') equivalent to 'fight on!' or 'go for it!', and has been popularized as a symbol of Filipino resilience and courage.
Examples
" Panalo ang laban natin. "
Natural Translation
Our match is a win.
Literal Translation
Win the fight our.
" Laban tayo hanggang sa katapusan! "
Natural Translation
We'll fight until the very end!
Literal Translation
Fight we until the end.
" Kahit mahirap ang laban, hindi sumuko ang koponan at pinaglaban nila ang tagumpay hanggang dulo. "
Natural Translation
Even though the match was tough, the team did not give up and fought for victory until the end.
Literal Translation
Even-though hard the fight, not gave-up the team and fought-for they the victory until end.
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