Tagalog phrases are like secret treasures that unlock the heart of Filipino culture. If you’ve got Filipino friends in the US, learning a few key phrases will deepen your connection and make you feel like part of the crew. From playful greetings to expressions of affection, Tagalog adds a whole new dimension to your friendships. Ready to level up your Pinoy insider knowledge?
If you follow a step by step process to learn Tagalog quickly, go to our related post here.
However, let’s dive into some essential Tagalog phrases used in the USA!
20 Tagalog words with similar spelling and pronunciation to their English counterparts
- bolpen (ballpen) – A pen, particularly a ballpoint pen.
- basket (basketball) – The sport, as well as the ball used in the game.
- braso (brazo) – Arm
- kompyuter (computer) – Computer
- diksiyonaryo (dictionary) – Dictionary
- drayber (driver) – Driver
- gradweyt (graduate) – To finish a course of study, or the person who has done so
- helikopter (helicopter) – Helicopter
- hotel (hotel) – A place providing lodging and usually meals and other services for travelers.
- klasrum (classroom) – Classroom
- komiks (comics) – Comic book
- lider (leader) – Leader
- litrato (litrato) – Photograph
- mantel (mantel) – A shelf above a fireplace
- mikropono (microphone) – Microphone
- nars (nurse) – Nurse
- opisina (oficina) – Office
- papel (papel) – Paper
- radyo (radio) – Radio
- telepono (telephone) – Telephone
Important Notes:
- While similar, pronunciations may have slight variations due to the influence of Tagalog phonology.
- Some words might now be less frequently used in favor of direct English or other modern loanwords.
- Tagalog continues to borrow and adapt words from other languages, including English.
Top 20 Tagalog Phrases used by Filipinos in USA
Everyday Greetings and Small Talk
- Kumusta ka? / Kumusta? – How are you?
- Mabuti naman. – I’m fine/good.
- Salamat. – Thank you.
- Walang anuman. – You’re welcome.
- Magandang umaga/tanghali/gabi. – Good morning/afternoon/evening.
- Kumain ka na ba? – Have you eaten yet? (A common Filipino greeting showing concern)
Expressing Emotions & Thoughts
- Nakakapagod! – This is tiring!
- Sayang naman. – What a waste/pity.
- Bahala na. – Whatever happens, happens. (Expressing a mix of resignation and faith)
- Ay nako! – Oh my! (Expressing surprise, slight annoyance, or exasperation)
Family and Relationships
- Mahal kita. – I love you.
- Anak – Child (can be used affectionately even outside of a direct parent-child relationship)
- Ate – Older sister (also used respectfully for older females)
- Kuya – Older brother (also used respectfully for older males)
- Ninang / Ninong – Godmother / Godfather
Connecting to the Philippines
- Miss ko na ang Pilipinas. – I miss the Philippines.
- Balikbayan box – A box filled with goods sent to loved ones in the Philippines.
- Padala – Remittance or money sent back to the Philippines
Slang and Casual Expressions
- Tara! / Halika! – Let’s go!
- ‘Di ba? – Right? (Seeking agreement)
Important Notes:
- Code-switching: Filipinos often mix English and Tagalog in a single sentence.
- Regional variations: Some phrases might be more common depending on the speaker’s regional origin in the Philippines.
- Formality: Use of “po” and “opo” can indicate respect, especially with older individuals.
20 Everyday Phrases used by Filipino in USA
Connecting and Hanging Out
- Kain tayo! – Let’s eat!
- Tara, inom! – Let’s go, drink!
- Chika tayo. – Let’s chat/gossip.
- G? (pronounced as ‘Ji’) – Short for “Game!” (Are you up for it?)
- Lakwatsa – Going on a fun outing or adventure.
- Tamang-tama! – Just right! Perfect timing!
- Sayang! – What a shame! / Too bad!
Expressing Emotions
- Susmaryosep! – Oh my God! (Expresses surprise or annoyance)
- Nakakainis! – So annoying! / Frustrating!
- Nakakatuwa. – It’s delightful / heartwarming.
- Nakakahiya. – It’s embarrassing.
- ‘Di bale. – Nevermind / It’s okay.
- Dedma – Short for “dead malice”, ignoring something intentionally.
- OA (overacting) – Exaggerating or being overly dramatic.
Joking and Teasing
- Charot! / Joke lang! – Just kidding!
- Uy, ano ba ‘yan? – Hey, what’s that about? (Used playfully)
- Edi wow! – Said sarcastically, meaning “like that’s impressive”.
- Ang kulit mo! – You’re so playful/annoying (usually said affectionately).
- Praning – Short for paranoid.
- Echos! / Echos lang! – Just saying something random, often silly.
- Hala sige! – Okay, okay (expressing gentle exasperation).
Conclusion
In conclusion, Tagalog phrases aren’t just words – they’re a bridge to a rich culture and a way to connect with your Filipino friends on a deeper level. So, the next time you see your barkada (friends), surprise them with a “Kumusta ka?” (How are you?) or a friendly “Tara, kain tayo!” (Let’s go eat!). You’ll be amazed at how these little Tagalog phrases open doors to laughter, shared experiences, and a stronger bond.
You can watch this video to know 50 Tagalog phrases:
Further Readings
Books:
- Essential Tagalog Grammar: A Reference for Learners
- by Fiona De Vos: This book provides a clear foundation of Tagalog grammar concepts with plenty of practical examples.
- Colloquial Tagalog: The Complete Course for Beginners by Joi Barrios: This focuses on everyday conversations and vocabulary, making it great for building practical speaking skills.
- Lonely Planet Tagalog Phrasebook & Dictionary: A compact and easy-to-use reference for quick phrases and on-the-go learning. Perfect for travel and spontaneous conversations.
- Tagalog for Beginners: An Introduction to Filipino, the National Language of the Philippines by Joi Barrios: A well-structured and widely used textbook with audio components for pronunciation practice.
Tips for Faster Learning in the USA:
- Seek out Filipino communities: Practice the phrases you learn with Filipino friends or at community events and shops.
- Immerse yourself in Filipino media: Watch Filipino movies, listen to Pinoy music, and read Filipino blogs to pick up the language in a natural context.
- Use language exchange apps: Find a Filipino language partner to practice conversation and get feedback on your pronunciation.