ngapa
ngapâ with stress marks
groping or not knowing what to do
Usage Note
Ngapa describes the state of fumbling in the dark — literally or figuratively — when one is lost, disoriented, or lacks a plan. It is used to describe both physical groping in darkness and the helpless confusion of someone who does not know how to proceed.
Examples
" Nangangapa ako sa dilim. "
Natural Translation
I am groping around in the dark.
Literal Translation
Groping I in-the dark.
" Isang mabilis na ngapa sa bulsa ang ginawa ko. "
Natural Translation
I did a quick groping in the pocket.
Literal Translation
One fast that grope in-the pocket the did I.
" Dahil bago pa lamang siya sa trabaho, parang ngapa pa siya sa dilim at hindi alam kung saan magsisimula. "
Natural Translation
Because he was still new to the job, he was like someone groping in the dark, not knowing where to begin.
Literal Translation
Because new still only he in-the work, like grope still he in-the dark and not know where will-begin.
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