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yakal

yakál with stress marks

a tall Philippine hardwood tree

noun ya-KAL Native origin Rare

Usage Note

Yakal (Shorea astylosa) is one of the most prized Philippine hardwoods, known for its exceptional strength, density, and durability. It is used in heavy construction, shipbuilding, and flooring. Due to overharvesting, yakal is now listed as an endangered species, and its logging is restricted under Philippine environmental laws.

Examples

Beginner

" Matibay ang kahoy na yakal. "

Natural Translation

Yakal wood is sturdy.

Literal Translation

Sturdy the wood yakal.

Intermediate

" Gawa ang sahig ng lumang bahay sa kahoy na yakal. "

Natural Translation

The floor of the old house is made of yakal wood.

Literal Translation

Made the floor of-the old house from wood yakal.

Advanced

" Ipinagbabawal na ngayon ang pagputol ng yakal sapagkat halos maubos na ang mga puno nito dahil sa labis na pagtotroso noong nakaraang mga dekada. "

Natural Translation

Cutting yakal is now prohibited because its trees have nearly disappeared due to excessive logging in past decades.

Literal Translation

Prohibited now the cutting of yakal because almost depleted already the trees of-it because of excessive logging during past plural decades.

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