Usage Note
Ningas is used literally for a flame or blaze, but it also appears in the well-known cultural phrase 'ningas-kugon', which describes a pattern of starting something with great enthusiasm but quickly losing interest. This phrase is used as a gentle critique of a perceived national tendency toward short-lived effort.
Examples
" Malakas ang ningas ng kandila. "
Natural Translation
The candle's flame is strong.
Literal Translation
Strong the flame of candle.
" Malakas ang ningas ng apoy sa aming kalan. "
Natural Translation
The flame of the fire in our stove is strong.
Literal Translation
Strong the flame of fire in our stove.
" Parang ningas-kugon ang sigasig niya sa trabaho, sapagkat ilang araw lamang ay nawalan na siya ng gana. "
Natural Translation
His enthusiasm at work is like a quick-burning flame, because after only a few days he already lost interest.
Literal Translation
Like flame-cogon the zeal his in work, because some days only lost already he of appetite.
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