Beatrice Sydney
Gaining proficiency in a foreign language includes knowing how to express various concepts, including terms related to personal characteristics. In this guide, we will delve into the word “prude” and explore how to say it in Tagalog, a language spoken in the Philippines. We will cover both formal and informal ways of expressing this term, focusing primarily on the standard Filipino language.
Formal Expressions
Formal expressions are commonly used in professional settings or when addressing someone with utmost respect. When expressing the term “prude” in a formal context, consider using the following phrases:
1. “Mahigpit sa mga kaugalian”
This phrase translates to “strict in customs” in English. It is an appropriate term to describe someone who has conservative values or is reserved in their actions. It implies that they adhere closely to societal norms and conventions.
Example:
Si Maria ay mahigpit sa mga kaugalian. Hindi siya komportable sa mga biro o pooka. (Maria is strict in customs. She feels uncomfortable with jokes or teasing.)
2. “Mataray”
Although the term “mataray” usually refers to someone who is snobbish or aloof, it can also be used to describe a person who is prudish. In a formal context, this word can be employed to convey the notion of being overly cautious or conservative.
Example:
Siyang koleksiyonista ng sining ay tinuturing na mataray ng mga kaibigan niya. Minsan, hindi niya gusto ang mga eksibisyon na may sugal o kaunting paghuhubad. (The art collector is considered prudish by his friends. Sometimes, he doesn’t like exhibitions that involve gambling or minimal nudity.)
3. “Maporma”
While the term “maporma” primarily means fashionable or stylish, it can also be used in a formal setting to describe someone who is excessively cautious about their behavior, particularly regarding matters of propriety.
Example:
Ang kaniyang mga magulang ay maporma, kaya hindi siya pinapayagang pumasok sa mga publikong paliguan. (Her parents are prudish, so she isn’t allowed to enter public bathhouses.)
Informal Expressions
Informal expressions are commonly used in casual conversations or when talking to friends and acquaintances. Take note of the following phrases to express the idea of being “prude” in a more relaxed setting:
1. “Balat-sibuyas”
The term “balat-sibuyas” is an idiomatic expression that translates to “onion-skinned” in English. Although it primarily refers to someone who is highly sensitive or easily offended, it can also be used to describe a person who is overly prudish.
Example:
Si Juan ay balat-sibuyas. Hindi siya pumapayag sa mga biro o mga kwentong pampatigas ng loob. (Juan is prudish. He doesn’t tolerate jokes or stories with adult content.)
2. “Mahiyain”
“Mahiyain” is a versatile term that primarily means shy or timid, but it can also be utilized to describe someone who is prudish. In an informal context, this word works well to convey the idea of being reserved or conservative.
Example:
Siya ay napakamahiyain. Hindi siya marunong magpakawala ng kaniyang emosyon at hindi komportable kapag ang usapan ay ukol sa sekswalidad. (She is very prudish. She doesn’t know how to express her emotions and feels uncomfortable when conversations are about sexuality.)
3. “Puritano/Puritana”
The terms “puritano” and “puritana” borrow from English’s “puritan” and “puritanical” respectively. They describe someone who is excessively strict, rigid, or prudish in their behavior.
Example:
Ang aking propesor sa unibersidad ay puritano pagdating sa pananamit. Ayaw niya sa mga nakababawalang disenyo ng mga damit. (My professor at the university is very prudish when it comes to clothing. He dislikes provocative clothing designs.)
Now that you have familiarized yourself with various formal and informal ways of saying “prude” in Tagalog, you can confidently use these expressions to describe individuals with conservative or reserved personalities. Remember, adapt your choice of words depending on the level of formality required in a given context, and continue exploring the richness of the Tagalog language.
Maintain a warm attitude as you engage in conversations to foster understanding and connection. Enjoy your language journey and embrace the beauty of cultural diversity!
