letsiyas
The English word lychee is translated into Tagalog as letsiyas.
The term refers to the fruit known as lychee.
Meaning: fruit (noun)
Which one should you use?
You may also encounter the informal version Litsiyas.
Did you know?
- The Tagalog word letsiyas is a phonetic adaptation of the Hokkien Chinese word for the fruit, reflecting the deep historical trade ties between the Philippines and Southern China.
- Because the fruit is often sold canned in syrup in the Philippines, the word letsiyas is frequently associated with desserts and cocktails rather than just fresh produce.
- In the Philippines, letsiyas is often grouped with other 'imported' summer fruits in street markets, despite not growing in the tropical lowland climate of the islands.
Examples in context
- Ang litsiyas ay isa sa aking paboritong prutas.Lychee is one of my favorite fruits.
Example conversation
Christina and Juan are at a fruit stand.
- ChristinaJuan, tignan mo itong mga letsiyas.Juan, look at these lychees.
- JuanMukhang masarap ang mga letsiyas na iyan.Those lychees look delicious.
- ChristinaBibili ba ako ng isang kilo?Should I buy one kilo?
- JuanOo, bilhin mo na iyan.Yes, go ahead and buy them.
