walanghiya (wah-lang-hee-yah)

wa.ˈlaŋ.hi.ˈjainsult

What does walanghiya (wah-lang-hee-yah) mean? walanghiya (wah-lang-hee-yah) is a Filipino strong that translates to “shameless bastard” in English.

without shame

01

"shameless bastard"

'Hiya' (shame/face) is a core Filipino value. Being 'without shame' is a severe character defect.

Walanghiya ka! Paano mo nagawa ito? (You shameless bastard! How could you do this?)

Context

  • Informal settings where profanity is accepted
  • Expressing strong frustration or emphasis
  • Direct confrontation (use with caution)

Avoid

  • Professional or formal settings
  • Around elders or authority figures
  • Job interviews, meetings, or customer-facing situations

Cultural Context

Used heavily in soap operas (Teleseryes) when a dramatic betrayal occurs.

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