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mana

maná with stress marks

inheritance; legacy; coral bush

noun ma-NA Native origin Less Common

Also means

When stressed on the first syllable as 'mána', it can refer to resemblance or the inheritance of traits from a parent.

Usage Note

Mana primarily means inheritance — property, money, or traits passed down through generations — and is deeply intertwined with Filipino family values and legal succession. The concept of inheriting not just material wealth but also character from ancestors is embedded in everyday usage of this word.

Examples

Beginner

" Mana ko ito sa lolo. "

Natural Translation

I inherited this from grandfather.

Literal Translation

Inheritance my this from grandfather.

Intermediate

" Malaki ang mana niya. "

Natural Translation

His/Her inheritance is big.

Literal Translation

Big the inheritance his/her.

Advanced

" Bukod sa lupa at bahay, ang pinakamahalagang mana na naiwan ng aming ama ay ang halaga ng katapatan at sipag. "

Natural Translation

Besides land and a house, the most valuable inheritance our father left behind was the value of honesty and hard work.

Literal Translation

Besides at land and house, the most-valuable inheritance [na] left by our father [topic] the value of honesty and diligence.

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