makata
makatâ with stress marks
poet
Usage Note
Makata is the Tagalog word for a poet — someone who composes poetry, whether formal literary verse or traditional oral forms such as balagtasan (a verse debate). Poetry has a revered place in Filipino culture, and notable poets like Francisco Balagtas are regarded as national heroes. The title 'makata' carries dignity and artistic prestige.
Examples
" Sikat na makata siya. "
Natural Translation
She is a famous poet.
Literal Translation
Famous poet she.
" Magaling ang makata. "
Natural Translation
The poet is good.
Literal Translation
Good the poet.
" Bawat tula ng makata ay tumatalakay sa pag-ibig sa bayan, kaya't iginagalang siya ng buong paaralan. "
Natural Translation
Every poem by the poet deals with love of country, so the whole school holds him in high regard.
Literal Translation
Every poem of the poet discusses love for country, so respected he by whole school.
Tagalog builds thousands of words from a few hundred roots.
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