mura
/ˈmuɾa/
The English phrase "cuss words" is translated into Filipino as mura.
The word mura can function as both a noun meaning 'a swear word' and a verb meaning 'to swear' or 'to curse'.
How does it change in a sentence?
To make the phrase 'mura' plural (cuss words), you must add the marker mga to create mga mura.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈmuɾa/
When do people say it?
Filipino speakers use various expressions to convey different levels of emotion. For instance, Anak ng tokwa! is a whimsical way to express surprise or shock. To show distress or exasperation, one might say Susmaryosep!, while the less offensive variant Susmariasus is also used. To express irritation or frustration, the term Bwiset! is common, whereas Lintik! indicates annoyance or anger. Finally, Lecheng _____! is used to express discontent or frustration towards a specific person or thing.
Did you know?
- In Filipino, the word mura is a homonym that also means 'cheap'. This creates a linguistic contrast where mahal, meaning 'expensive', is the word used for 'love'.
- The word mura may have evolved from the Pali word muddha, which means 'foolish' or 'bewildered'. This traces the root of Filipino cussing back to ancient Sanskrit influences.
Examples in context
- Huwag kang gumamit ng mga mura.Don't use cuss words.
- Marami siyang alam na mura.He knows a lot of cuss words.
- Bawal ang mura sa loob ng silid-aralan.Cuss words are prohibited inside the classroom.
Example conversation
Antonio is scolding Maria for her language in front of others.
- AntonioMaria, huwag kang magsabi ng mga mura.Maria, don't say cuss words.
- MariaPasensya na, Antonio.I'm sorry, Antonio.
- AntonioHindi maganda pakinggan ang mga mura.Cuss words don't sound good.
- MariaOpo, hindi ko na uulitin.Yes, I won't do it again.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry mura, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries mura, CC BY-SA 4.0.
