Which term refers to Filipino idioms with figurative meanings?

• A. Pasawikain
• B. Balat-sibuyas
• C. Agaw-buhay
• D. Bugtong na anak

Answer: (A)

Filipino idioms with figurative meanings are described by the term pasawikain. This word refers to expressions whose meaning isn’t found in the literal words themselves but in a conventional, figurative sense used by speakers. See, sawikain (the base word) covers idioms and proverbs that convey ideas beyond their literal phrasing. Pasawikain is the form used to talk about these expressions as a category. For example, balat-sibuyas conveys the idea of being very sensitive, and agaw-buhay means someone is near death—both are figurative uses, i.e., sawikain. Bugtong na anak, on the other hand, points to a riddle form rather than a category of figurative idioms, so it doesn’t label the whole concept.