kaluoy
/kaˈluʔoj/
The English word "mercy" is translated into Bisaya as kaluoy.
kaluoy is a noun used to express the concept of mercy, forgiveness or compassion.
Meaning: forgiveness or compassion (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is formed from the root luoy (to feel pity or compassion) with the prefix ka- which turns the verb into an abstract noun.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Cebuano, 'mercy' can be translated as kalooy. In Ilonggo, awa means 'mercy'.
How do you pronounce it?
/kaˈluʔoj/
Did you know?
- In some Bisaya contexts, saying luoy kaayo can be used sarcastically to mock someone who is complaining too much, effectively meaning 'oh, you poor thing'.
- The concept of kaluoy is central to the 'Filipino value of compassion', where showing mercy is seen as a moral obligation to the vulnerable rather than a choice by a superior.
- In Bisaya, the root luoy is often used as an adjective to describe a person as 'pitiful' or 'pathetic' rather than just as a verb for feeling compassion.
Examples in context
- Dako kaayo ang iyang kaluoy kanato.His mercy toward us is very great.
- Naghangyo ko sa imong kaluoy.I am pleading for your mercy.
- Ang kaluoy sa Ginoo walay katapusan.The mercy of God is endless.
Example conversation
Jun is asking Joy for a second chance after a mistake.
- JunJoy, pasayloa ko sa akong nabuhat.Joy, please forgive me for what I did.
- JoyNganong mangayo man ka og pasaylo karon?Why are you asking for forgiveness now?
- JunNaghangyo lang ko sa imong kaluoy, Joy.I am just asking for your mercy, Joy.
- JoySige, hatagan tika og higayon.Fine, I will give you a chance.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “mercy” translations and entries kaluoy, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
