swerte
The Bisaya word for luck is swerte.
swerte refers to something that happens to someone by chance. In common usage, this noun can also function as an adjective meaning 'lucky'.
Meaning: something that happens to someone by chance (noun)
Which one should you use?
While swerte is the common term for luck or being lucky, swertehon is a specific adjective used to describe a person who is lucky or fortunate. Additionally, kapalaran is used to denote destiny or a predetermined course of events.
How does it change in a sentence?
You can create the adjective for a lucky person by adding the suffix -hon to swerte, resulting in swertehon.
Did you know?
- The concept of 'luck' in the Philippines is often tied to 'swerte' being something that can be 'captured' or 'shared' through certain rituals or gestures.
- In Bisaya culture, bad luck is often referred to as malas, another Spanish loanword, which is used more frequently in daily conversation than the formal terms for misfortune.
- The word swerte is a loanword from the Spanish 'suerte'. Because of this historical influence, many Bisaya speakers also use Spanish-derived terms when discussing gambling and fate.
Examples in context
- Naghulat ko sa akong kapalaran.I'm waiting for my luck/destiny.
- Dako kaayo ang akong swerte karon.I have a lot of luck today.
- Swerte kaayo ka sa imong trabaho.You are very lucky in your job.
- Wala gyud koy swerte sa dula.I have no luck at all in the game.
Example conversation
Elena and Ricardo are talking about a lottery draw.
- ElenaNaa kay swerte sa lotto, Ricardo?Did you have luck with the lotto, Ricardo?
- RicardoWala gyud, Elena.None at all, Elena.
- ElenaAyaw kabalaka, basin swertehon ka ugma.Don't worry, maybe you will be lucky tomorrow.
- RicardoUnta tinuod na.I hope that is true.
