iwas

iwas is a Filipino term that functions as a verb meaning to avoid or refrain from something. It is widely used in everyday speech as a root form and appears in several common derived forms, such as iwasan, which means to avoid something, and pag-iwas, which refers to the act or concept of avoidance or precaution. The word is found in both informal conversation and formal communications, especially in contexts dealing with safety, health, and risk reduction.

In usage, iwas appears in imperative and declarative sentences. For example, phrases like "Iwasan mo ang panganib" (Avoid the danger) and "Mag-iwas tayo sa mga mapanganib na lugar" (Let us stay away from dangerous places) illustrate its role in giving guidance or warnings. The noun form pag-iwas is used to describe the practice of avoiding certain risks, such as in health campaigns or traffic safety messaging.

Linguistically, iwas arises from the root iwas and participates in Tagalog morphology with prefixes and affixes to create related meanings. It is a common word across Filipino languages and adopted media, and it frequently appears in public advisories, instruction manuals, and everyday advice. Through its common usage, iwas reflects a cultural emphasis on precaution and avoidance as practical responses to danger, illness, or inconvenience.

See also: pag-iwas, iwasan.