magwatak-watak
magwatàk-watàk with stress marks
to scatter; to fall apart
From root: watak
Conjugations
Past (Completed)
nagwatak-watak
nag-wa-tak-wa-TAK
scattered
Present (Incomplete)
nagwawatak-watak
nag-wa-wa-tak-wa-TAK
is falling apart
Future (Contemplated)
magwawatak-watak
mag-wa-wa-tak-wa-TAK
will fall apart
Usage Note
Magwatak-watak is the reduplicated actor-focus form of watak, used for scattering or falling apart both literally — objects strewn about — and figuratively, as when a group or institution disintegrates. The reduplication reflects the thoroughness of the dispersal, and the word is frequent in political and social commentary.
Examples
" Nagwatak-watak ang mga papel sa hangin. "
Natural Translation
The papers scattered in the wind.
Literal Translation
Scattered the papers in wind.
" Maaaring magwatak-watak ang grupo kapag walang maayos na pinuno. "
Natural Translation
The group might fall apart if there is no good leader.
Literal Translation
Might to fall apart the group when without good leader.
" Nagwatak-watak ang dating matatag na samahan nang magsimula ang alitan sa pagitan ng mga lider. "
Natural Translation
The once-solid organization fell apart when conflict began between the leaders.
Literal Translation
Fell-apart the formerly solid organization when started the conflict between of the leaders.
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