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tuli

tulî with stress marks

circumcision; to circumcise

noun verb tu-LI Native origin Less Common

Usage Note

Tuli refers to circumcision, a deeply embedded cultural rite of passage for boys in the Philippines practiced across Catholic and Muslim communities alike. The traditional procedure, often performed by a manunuli in rural areas, remains a significant social milestone accompanied by family celebration.

Examples

Beginner

" Tinuli na ang bata. "

Natural Translation

The boy was already circumcised.

Literal Translation

Was-circumcised already the child.

Intermediate

" Kailangan ng tuli ang mga batang lalaki. "

Natural Translation

The young boys need circumcision.

Literal Translation

Need of circumcision the young boys.

Advanced

" Bago pumasok sa hayskul, tinutuli ang karamihan ng mga batang lalaki tuwing tag-araw bilang bahagi ng tradisyon. "

Natural Translation

Before entering high school, most boys are circumcised every summer as part of tradition.

Literal Translation

Before enter to high-school, is-circumcised the majority of the boy-children every summer as part of tradition.

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