Usage Note
Mesa is the standard term for any type of table in daily conversation, used for everything from dining to work. While it is ubiquitous, the more formal or literary term 'hapag-kainan' is specifically used when referring to a dining table.
Examples
" Nasa mesa ang plato. "
Natural Translation
The plate is on the table.
Literal Translation
On-the table the plate.
" Puno ang mesa ng pagkain. "
Natural Translation
The table is full of food.
Literal Translation
The table is full of food.
" Tuwing hapunan, nagtitipon ang buong pamilya sa mesa para mag-usap tungkol sa kanilang araw. "
Natural Translation
Every dinner, the whole family gathers at the table to talk about their day.
Literal Translation
Every dinner, gathers the whole family at table to talk about their day.
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