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sunog

sunóg with stress marks

fire; to ignite; burnt

noun verb adjective su-NOG Native origin Less Common

Usage Note

Sunog is a high-frequency, versatile word covering the concept of fire as both a noun (a fire or blaze), a verb (to burn something), and an adjective (burnt or scorched). Fires in densely packed barangays are a serious community concern in the Philippines, so 'Sunog!' shouted as a warning carries immediate urgency. It is also used casually — 'sunog ang kanin' means the rice is burnt.

Examples

Beginner

" Sunog ang kanin. "

Natural Translation

The rice is burnt.

Literal Translation

Burnt the rice.

Intermediate

" Malaki ang sunog sa bayan. "

Natural Translation

The fire in the town is big.

Literal Translation

Big the fire in town.

Advanced

" Nang marinig ang sigaw na sunog, agad na tumakbo ang mga residente palabas ng kanilang mga bahay. "

Natural Translation

When they heard the shout of fire, the residents immediately ran out of their houses.

Literal Translation

When heard the shout that fire, immediately ran the residents out of their houses.

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