bola
/ˈbola/
The Filipino word for ball is bola.
bola refers to a spherical object used for playing games. In a colloquial sense, it can also mean lies, nonsense or empty talk used to deceive someone.
Meaning: object, generally spherical, used for playing games (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈbola/
Did you know?
- The word bola is a direct linguistic descendant of the Latin word bulla, which originally referred to a seal or an amulet.
- In Tagalog slang, calling someone a bolero (masculine) or bolera (feminine) identifies them as a person who is a habitual smooth-talker or a liar.
- The phrase nabola describes the feeling of being tricked or swayed by sweet talk. It suggests the person was 'played' like a ball in a game.
Examples in context
- Sinalo niya ang bola.He caught the ball.This sentence demonstrates an action involving the bola.Tatoeba #11270376 by qwertzu, translation #2732410 by Amastan
- Tumama ang bola sa poste.The ball hit the post.This sentence describes the bola hitting an object.Tatoeba #11481223 by qwertzu, translation #10613215 by AlanF_US
- Ang araw ay sumusunog na bola.The sun is a flaming ball.This sentence uses bola as a metaphor for the sun.Tatoeba #1854220 by nonong, translation #275159 by rul
- Itapon mo ang bola palayo.Throw the ball far away.
- Bolahin mo na lang ako.Just lie to me / Just flatter me.
- 11 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
In a park, a boy and a girl are playing.
- AngelaNasaan ang bola?Where is the ball?
- JoseNasa loob ng basket ang bola.The ball is inside the basket.
- AngelaSalamat, Jose.Thanks, Jose.
- JoseWalang anuman, Angela.You're welcome, Angela.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “ball” translations and entries bola, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries bola, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
