linta
líntâ with stress marks
leech; parasite (fig.)
Usage Note
Linta literally refers to a leech, the blood-sucking aquatic worm found in rice paddies and rivers. Figuratively it is a common insult applied to people who exploit others — corrupt officials, freeloaders, or those who take advantage of someone's generosity — and the figurative use is widespread in political commentary and everyday criticism.
Examples
" May linta sa palayan. "
Natural Translation
There is a leech in the rice field.
Literal Translation
Has leech in rice-field.
" May linta sa ilog. "
Natural Translation
There is a leech in the river.
Literal Translation
Has leech in river.
" Parang linta ang ilang opisyal na sumisipsip lamang sa kaban ng bayan nang hindi naglilingkod sa mga tao. "
Natural Translation
Some officials are like leeches who only suck from the public treasury without serving the people.
Literal Translation
Like leech the some officials who suck only at treasury of nation while not serving to the people.
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