gugma
/ˈɡuɡma/
In Bisaya, love is translated as gugma.
gugma is a noun representing strong affection.
Meaning: strong affection (noun)
Which one should you use?
The word gugma refers to deep, profound or romantic love, whereas gusto is used for liking or wanting something.
Related words
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈɡuɡma/
Did you know?
- The word gugma may share a distant root with the Tagalog word gayuma, which refers to a 'love potion' or an enchantment used to make someone fall in love.
- In the Philippines, the phrase gugma is often used in 'harana', a traditional form of courtship where a man serenades a woman under her window.
- In many Bisaya-speaking regions, expressing gugma is often done through actions or 'pagpangga' (acts of care) rather than just saying the word itself.
Examples in context
- Dako kaayo ang akong gugma kanimo.My love for you is very big.
- Ang gugma sa ginikanan walay katapusan.A parent's love is endless.
- Gikinahanglan sa tanan ang gugma.Everyone needs love.
Example conversation
Juan and Joy are talking about their relationship in a cafe.
- JuanJoy, ang akong gugma kanimo tinuod.Joy, my love for you is real.
- JoySalamat, Juan. Gibati pud nako ang imong gugma.Thank you, Juan. I feel your love too.
- JuanKanunay lang nako ihatag ang akong gugma.I will always give you my love.
- JoyBulahan kaayo ko nimo.I am so blessed to have you.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “love” translations and entries gugma, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries gugma, CC BY-SA 4.0.
