ligawan
ligawan is the Tagalog phrase for the act of courting someone to win their love and affection.
Which one should you use?
While ligawan refers to the act of courting, the related form Panliligaw is used to refer specifically to the act of courtship itself. Additionally, the form nililigawan is used to describe the active process of courting a specific person.
How does it change in a sentence?
To describe the ongoing process of courting a specific individual, you should use the present progressive form nililigawan, which means 'courting (someone)'.
Did you know?
- The term 'ligaw' can also mean 'lost' or 'stray' in other contexts, creating a linguistic irony where one is 'lost' in the pursuit of love.
- Historically, ligawan often involved paninilbihan, where the suitor performed manual chores like chopping wood or fetching water for the woman's family to prove their sincerity.
- A common courtship ritual involves 'harana', where a suitor serenades the woman outside her window at night to demonstrate his sincerity and devotion.
Examples in context
- Siya ang aking manliligawHe/She is my suitor
- Naniniwala ako sa tamang paraan ng panliligawI believe in the proper way of courtship
- Nais kong ligawan kaI want to court you
- Ako ang nanliligaw sa kanyaI am the one courting her
Example conversation
Juan is talking to Angela about his feelings.
- JuanAngela, gusto sana kitang ligawan.Angela, I would like to court you.
- AngelaTalaga? Bakit ako?Really? Why me?
- JuanKasi mahal kita at seryoso ako.Because I love you and I am serious.
- AngelaSige, susubukan ko muna.Alright, I will give it a try first.
