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sawa

sawâ with stress marks

boa constrictor; python

noun sa-WA Native origin Less Common

Also means

Sawa can also mean fed up or tired of something when used as an adjective, as in 'sawa na ako' (I'm sick of it already).

Usage Note

Sawa literally refers to large constrictor snakes found in the Philippine wilderness, and it appears in local folklore as a fearsome creature. In everyday colloquial use, 'sawa na ako' is one of the most common expressions for being fed up or exhausted with something, keeping both senses in active daily use.

Examples

Beginner

" May malaking sawa sa gubat. "

Natural Translation

There's a big python in the forest.

Literal Translation

Has big python in forest.

Intermediate

" Nakakita ako ng malaking sawa. "

Natural Translation

I saw a big python.

Literal Translation

Saw I of big python.

Advanced

" Ayon sa mga matatanda sa nayon, may higanteng sawang naninirahan sa kuweba malapit sa ilog. "

Natural Translation

According to the elders in the village, a giant python lives in the cave near the river.

Literal Translation

According to the elders in village, has giant python-that lives in cave near to river.

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