Usage Note
Sirka comes from Latin and Spanish circa, meaning approximately, and is used in historical writing, academic texts, and formal documents to indicate an approximate date or period. In casual speech, Filipinos prefer humigit-kumulang or mga to express approximation, so sirka signals a more formal or scholarly register.
Examples
" Itinayo ito sirka 1900. "
Natural Translation
This was built circa 1900.
Literal Translation
Built this circa 1900.
" Ginawa ito sirka 1990. "
Natural Translation
This was made circa 1990.
Literal Translation
Made this circa 1990.
" Ayon sa mga mananalaysay, naitatag ang lumang simbahan sirka 1750, bagaman walang tiyak na talaan ang natagpuan. "
Natural Translation
According to historians, the old church was established circa 1750, although no exact record was found.
Literal Translation
According to historians, established the old church circa 1750, although no exact record was-found.
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