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lala

lála with stress marks

serious; acute; aggravated; severity

adjective LA-la Native origin Less Common

Also means

Lala can also mean to weave when stress falls on the second syllable (lalâ), referring to the craft of weaving cloth or baskets.

Usage Note

Lala is the standard adjective for a condition — illness, wound, or situation — that has become worse or is alarmingly severe. Doctors, news reporters, and family members alike use it. The form 'lumala' (to worsen) is the common verb derivative.

Examples

Beginner

" Malala na ang sakit niya. "

Natural Translation

His illness is now serious.

Literal Translation

Serious already the sickness his.

Intermediate

" Ang lala ng trapiko ngayon ay grabe. "

Natural Translation

The severity of the traffic today is terrible.

Literal Translation

The severity of traffic now is terrible.

Advanced

" Kung hindi mo agad gagamutin ang sugat, baka lumala ito at maging mas mapanganib. "

Natural Translation

If you don't treat the wound right away, it might worsen and become more dangerous.

Literal Translation

If not you immediately treat the wound, maybe worsen it and become more dangerous.

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