ngunit
ngúnit with stress marks
yet or but (modern form)
Usage Note
Ngunit is the standard modern Tagalog conjunction meaning 'but' or 'however'. It is more formal than 'pero' (borrowed from Spanish) and is preferred in written language, news media, and official communications. It is often taught first to learners of Filipino as the native alternative to 'pero'.
Examples
" Pagod ako, ngunit masaya. "
Natural Translation
I'm tired, but happy.
Literal Translation
Tired I, but happy.
" Gusto ko siyang tulungan, ngunit wala akong kakayahan. "
Natural Translation
I want to help him/her, but I have no ability.
Literal Translation
Want I him/her help, but none I ability.
" Sinubukan kong tapusin ang proyekto nang mag-isa, ngunit napagtanto kong kailangan ko rin ng tulong mula sa iba. "
Natural Translation
I tried to finish the project alone, but I realized I also needed help from others.
Literal Translation
Tried I to-finish the project as-one, but realized I that need I also of help from others.
Tagalog builds thousands of words from a few hundred roots.
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