laswa
láswâ with stress marks
lewd; lascivious
Usage Note
Laswa describes behavior, speech, or material that is sexually explicit, crude, or morally offensive. It is a strong term of disapproval that reflects conservative Filipino values around decency and modesty. Malaswa (adjective) is used to label dirty jokes, indecent proposals, or explicit content.
Examples
" Bawal ang laswa rito. "
Natural Translation
Lewdness is not allowed here.
Literal Translation
Forbidden the lewdness here.
" Puno ng laswa ang palabas. "
Natural Translation
The show is full of lewdness.
Literal Translation
Full of lewdness the show.
" Pinatanggal ng mga magulang ang palabas dahil sa laswa na hindi nila nais ipakita sa mga bata. "
Natural Translation
The parents had the show taken down because of the lewdness they did not want to expose the children to.
Literal Translation
Had-removed by-the parents the show because of-the lewdness that not they want to-show to the children.
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