wala
walâ with stress marks
none; absent; nothing; free from
Usage Note
Wala is one of the most fundamental words in Tagalog, functioning as the negative existential equivalent of 'mayroon' (there is). It signals the absence, non-existence, or unavailability of something or someone. It also serves as the polite response meaning 'you're welcome' in informal speech ('wala 'yon'), and as a filler in negating possession ('wala akong pera' — I have no money).
Examples
" Wala na ang pusa. "
Natural Translation
The cat is gone.
Literal Translation
None already the cat.
" Wala akong pera ngayon. "
Natural Translation
I have no money right now.
Literal Translation
None I money now.
" Wala namang masama sa pagtatanong, kaya huwag kang mahiyang lumapit sa akin kung may problema ka. "
Natural Translation
There's nothing wrong with asking, so don't be shy to come to me if you have a problem.
Literal Translation
None so bad in asking, so don't you-to be-shy approach to me if there problem you.
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