nganga
ngangá with stress marks
the act of opening one's mouth
Also means
Nganga can also refer to the betel-nut chewing mixture of betel leaf, pepper, and lime when the stress falls differently.
Usage Note
Nganga in this sense refers to the open-mouthed expression of surprise, confusion, or speechlessness. Telling someone 'nakanganga ka' ('you're just standing there with your mouth open') implies they are stunned or dumbfounded and need to react.
Examples
" Nakanganga siya sa gulat. "
Natural Translation
He stood there open-mouthed in shock.
Literal Translation
Open-mouthed he in shock.
" Ang nganga ng ibon ay naghihintay ng pagkain mula sa kanyang ina. "
Natural Translation
The bird's open mouth is waiting for food from its mother.
Literal Translation
The open-mouth of bird is waiting of food from to its mother.
" Nanganga ang lahat sa loob ng silid nang marinig nila ang hindi inaasahang balita. "
Natural Translation
Everyone in the room was left open-mouthed when they heard the unexpected news.
Literal Translation
Open-mouthed the all inside of room when heard they the not expected news.
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