Direct Translations:
* Debt of gratitude: This focuses on the feeling of being indebted to someone for a favor.
* Obligation of gratitude: This highlights the moral obligation to repay the kindness.
More nuanced expressions:
* Sense of indebtedness: This conveys the feeling of owing something to someone, but without specifying the form of repayment.
* Reciprocal obligation: This captures the back-and-forth nature of the relationship, where favors are expected to be returned.
* Social contract: This emphasizes the cultural understanding that favors need to be reciprocated to maintain harmonious relationships.
Other terms:
* Karma: While not a direct translation, this concept of "what goes around comes around" is often associated with "utang na loob."
* Filial piety: This term, related to Chinese culture, emphasizes respect and loyalty towards elders and authority figures, which can be seen as a broader aspect of "utang na loob."
Ultimately, the best English translation for "utang na loob" depends on the context and the specific nuance you want to convey. It's important to remember that "utang na loob" is a deeply rooted cultural concept that goes beyond a simple debt or obligation.