What does it mean word for word?
The word is formed from the root hiya (shame) with the prefix nakaka-, which indicates a quality that causes a certain feeling, making the word literally 'shame-inducing'.
Which one should you use?
While nakakahiya is the standard term, you may encounter Nakaka-awkward used colloquially to describe uncomfortable or cringe-inducing social situations. Additionally, Nakaka-kilig is sometimes used to express a positive form of cringing, particularly in romantic or cute scenarios.
How does it change in a sentence?
In Tagalog, nakakahiya functions as an adjective that describes the situation or the thing causing the cringe, rather than the person feeling it. To specify that something is cringey specifically to you, you can add sa akin (to me) after the adjective, resulting in nakakahiya sa akin.
Did you know?
- The concept of hiya is so strong that it can be used to politely decline an invitation or a gift to avoid appearing greedy or demanding.
- Unlike the English 'cringe', which is often a visceral physical reaction, nakakahiya is more closely linked to the social standing and reputation of the people involved.
- The root word hiya describes a complex social value involving 'shame' and 'propriety' that is central to Filipino psychology, often functioning as a social glue to maintain harmony.
Examples in context
- Nakakasuka naman ang pagkanta niya sa video na iyon.His singing in that video is cringe-worthy.
- Nakakahiya ang ginagawa niya.What he is doing is cringe.
- Nakakahiya yung video na napanood ko.The video I watched was cringe.
- Masyadong nakakahiya ang joke niya.His joke was too cringe.
Example conversation
Two friends are watching a video on a phone.
- JuanNakakahiya yung tawa niya sa video.Her laugh in the video is cringe.
- ChristinaOo, nakakahiya nga panoorin siya.Yes, it is cringe to watch her.
- JuanHindi ko kayang panoorin nang matagal.I can't watch it for long.
- ChristinaGusto mo bang i-off na ito?Do you want to turn this off?
