lawak
láwak with stress marks
expanse; vastness
Also means
Lawak can also refer to the universe or the vastness of outer space.
Usage Note
Lawak describes the vastness of a physical area, but is most frequently used with the prefix 'ma-' (malawak) to mean wide or spacious. It can also figuratively describe a broad mind or a deep understanding of a subject.
Examples
" Ang lawak ng bukid. "
Natural Translation
How vast the field is.
Literal Translation
The expanse of field.
" Ang lawak ng dagat ay kahanga-hanga. "
Natural Translation
The vastness of the sea is amazing.
Literal Translation
The expanse of the sea is amazing.
" Kapag tumingin ka sa lawak ng karagatan, mararamdaman mong napakaliit ng tao sa mundong ito. "
Natural Translation
When you look at the vastness of the ocean, you feel how small a person is in this world.
Literal Translation
When look you at expanse of ocean, feel you-linker very-small the person in world this.
Take Tagalog with you
The full course, a 12,500-word dictionary, and flashcards that make every word stick — free to start on iOS and Android.
Tagalog builds thousands of words from a few hundred roots.
How Tagalog words workDerived Words
Actor Focus Verbs
Object Focus Verbs
Related Words
Explore Tagalog by topic
Free guides on grammar, vocabulary, and culture to take you past single-word lookups.
Na vs -ng in Tagalog: The Linker Rule Made Simple
When do you use na vs -ng in Tagalog? One simple rule, with clear examples, memory tips, and common mistakes explained for English-speaking beginners.
Tagalog Verb Focus System Explained (It's Not Active vs. Passive)
The Tagalog verb focus system isn't active vs. passive. Learn actor focus, object focus, and more with clear examples that finally make it click.
Tagalog Question Words: Ano, Sino, Saan & More
Tagalog question words like ano, sino, and saan need the right frame to work. Learn the ang-vs-pronoun rule, confusable pairs, and the ba particle with audio.
How to Say "I Love You" in Tagalog: Phrases & Meaning
Learn how to say I love you in Tagalog. Mahal kita, Iniibig kita, and Filipino terms of endearment for partners, family, and friends — with cultural notes.