labnaw
lábnaw with stress marks
diluted condition; watery
Usage Note
Labnaw describes a substance that is too watery or diluted — most commonly used to criticize soup, stew, or a drink that lacks body or flavor. It is also used figuratively to describe something lacking substance or intensity, such as a weak argument or a bland performance. The word reflects Filipino culinary standards where rich, thick broths are prized.
Examples
" Labnaw ang gatas. "
Natural Translation
The milk is watery.
Literal Translation
Watery the milk.
" Labnaw ang sabaw ng sinigang, kailangan pang dagdagan ng sampalok. "
Natural Translation
The sinigang broth is too watery, more tamarind needs to be added.
Literal Translation
Watery the broth of-the sinigang, needs more add of tamarind.
" Bagaman masarap ang ulam, labnaw naman ang sabaw kaya parang kulang sa lasa ang kabuuan. "
Natural Translation
Although the dish was tasty, the broth was watery, so the whole thing felt like it lacked flavor.
Literal Translation
Although tasty the dish, watery though the broth so like lacking in taste the whole.
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