tagis
tagís with stress marks
to sharpen or compete
Usage Note
Tagis carries a dual meaning: literally, it refers to sharpening a blade or tool; figuratively, it means to compete or pit oneself against another. The figurative use is common in sports and academic contexts, as in a battle of wits or a competition between skilled individuals.
Examples
" Magtagis tayo ng bakal. "
Natural Translation
Let's sharpen the metal.
Literal Translation
Sharpen we of metal.
" Nasaan ang gamit para sa tagis ng bakal? "
Natural Translation
Where is the tool for the sharpening of metal?
Literal Translation
Where the tool for to-the sharpen of metal?
" Sa paligsahan ng talino, nagtagis ang dalawang mahuhusay na mag-aaral hanggang sa huling tanong ng kompetisyon. "
Natural Translation
In the battle of wits, the two brilliant students competed against each other right up to the final question of the contest.
Literal Translation
In contest of intelligence, competed the two brilliant students until the last question of competition.
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