kapus-palad
The Tagalog word for 'unfortunate' is kapus-palad.
While it can imply a lack of luck, it is most frequently applied to those living in poverty.
Which one should you use?
If you want to express a general sense of bad luck or misfortune, you might use the informal term Malas. If you are expressing regret over a missed opportunity or wasted potential, the informal term Sayang is more appropriate. Use kapus-palad when focusing on the plight of the underprivileged.
How does it change in a sentence?
As an adjective, kapus-palad does not change its form regardless of whether you are describing one person or multiple people.
Did you know?
- If you describe someone as kapus-palad, you are metaphorically saying their 'palms are short', implying they have little destiny to hold.
- In Filipino culture, the 'palm' of the hand (palad) is also the term used for 'destiny' or 'fate'.
- The prefix kapus implies a 'shortage' or 'insufficiency'. Together with palad, the phrase describes someone who was given a 'short hand' of luck by fate.
Examples in context
- Sayang, hindi nagtuloy-tuloy ang planoToo bad the plan didn't push through
- Ang malas naman ng pangyayariWhat an unlucky incident
- Maraming kapus-palad ang mga bata sa lansangan.There are many unfortunate children on the streets.
- Nais naming tumulong sa mga kapus-palad.We want to help the unfortunate.
- Siya ay isang kapus-palad na magsasaka.He is an unfortunate farmer.
Example conversation
Angela and Ricardo are discussing a charity event at a community center.
- AngelaRicardo, mayroon tayong programa para sa mga kapus-palad.Ricardo, we have a program for the unfortunate.
- RicardoMaganda iyan para sa mga taong nangangailangan.That is good for people in need.
- AngelaGusto mo bang sumama sa amin?Do you want to join us?
- RicardoSige, tutulong ako sa kanila.Sure, I will help them.
