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sakali

sakalî with stress marks

if; in case; by chance

adverb verb sa-ka-LI Native origin Less Common

Usage Note

Sakali introduces a hypothetical or contingency — 'sakali mang' means 'in the unlikely event that' or 'just in case.' It carries a slightly formal or literary tone compared to 'kung' (if) and is often used when expressing cautious hope or remote possibility.

Examples

Beginner

" Sakaling umulan, manatili ka rito. "

Natural Translation

In case it rains, stay here.

Literal Translation

In-case rain, stay you here.

Intermediate

" Kung sakali na umulan, may payong ako. "

Natural Translation

In case it rains, I have an umbrella.

Literal Translation

If in-case that rain, there-is umbrella I.

Advanced

" Nagdala ako ng dagdag na pera sakaling magkulang tayo sa pamasahe pauwi mamayang gabi. "

Natural Translation

I brought extra money in case we run short on fare for the trip home tonight.

Literal Translation

Brought I of extra money in-case run-short we in fare going-home later night.

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