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sintunado

off key; out of tune

adjective verb sin-to-NA-do Spanish origin Less Common

Usage Note

Sintunado comes from Spanish sintonado and means out of tune or off-key. It is a very common word in Filipino karaoke culture, where singing ability is a serious social matter — being called sintunado is lighthearted criticism but can sting in a society where communal singing is a beloved pastime.

Examples

Beginner

" Sintunado ang boses ko. "

Natural Translation

My voice is off key.

Literal Translation

Off-key the voice my.

Intermediate

" Sintunado ang kanyang pagkanta. "

Natural Translation

His/her singing is off key.

Literal Translation

Off key the his/her singing.

Advanced

" Kahit medyo sintunado siyang kumanta, masayang-masaya pa rin ang lahat habang nagvi-videoke sa pista. "

Natural Translation

Even though he sang a bit off key, everyone was still very happy while doing videoke at the fiesta.

Literal Translation

Even slightly off-key he-LINKER sang, very-happy still all while doing-videoke at-the fiesta.

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