Usage Note
Ohales is borrowed from Spanish 'ojales' and refers to the small slit or loop through which a button is fastened in clothing. It is used by tailors, seamstresses, and in sewing instructions — the Philippines has a strong tradition of skilled dressmaking, making this a practical term in the craft.
Examples
" Sira ang ohales ng kamiseta. "
Natural Translation
The buttonhole of the shirt is torn.
Literal Translation
Torn the buttonhole of shirt.
" Kailangan pang ayusin ang ohales ng aking polo. "
Natural Translation
The buttonhole of my polo shirt still needs to be fixed.
Literal Translation
Need still fix the buttonhole of my polo.
" Bago ibalik ng mananahi ang damit, inayos muna niya ang lahat ng ohales upang maayos na maisara ang mga butones. "
Natural Translation
Before the seamstress returned the dress, she first fixed all the buttonholes so the buttons would close properly.
Literal Translation
Before to-return of seamstress the dress, fixed first she the all of buttonhole in-order well to-close the plural button.
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