Useful Vocabulary for the Philippines

Useful Vocabulary for the Philippines

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Starting your trip to the Philippines with some basics of Tagalog is a real asset to immerse yourself in the local culture and connect with the locals.

Languages of the Philippines

For your stay in the Philippines, it's helpful to have a glossary of useful travel words. The country's ethnic diversity is immense: over 170 languages are spoken! The official language is Tagalog (or Filipino, in its standardized form), which serves as the basis for communication in Manila and central regions. English, also an official language, is widely understood in major cities, in the tourism and professional sectors. However, in the provinces or on certain islands, Cebuano, Hiligaynon, Ilocano or Waray may dominate, with sometimes very different vocabularies. A simple word like "eat" will vary by region: "kain" in Tagalog, "kaon" in Cebuano, "kakan" in Bikol.

Spanish Heritage and Linguistic Influence

After 300 years of Spanish colonization, many Spanish-origin words are found in the Tagalog lexicon: "kamusta" (from "¿cómo está?"), "mesa" (table), "kutsara" (spoon), or "bintana" (window). This influence is also felt in first names, place names and some days of the week.

The phenomenon of "Taglish" (mix of Tagalog and English) is also widespread, making communication easier for travelers. A simple "Yes po!" (yes, respectfully) fits well both in English and Tagalog.

Basics of Polite Communication

The use of the respect markers "po" or "opo" is central: they are systematically used towards elders, strangers, or people in authority. This suffix, added at the end of a sentence (for example "Salamat po" for "thank you"), transforms a common phrase into a highly appreciated sign of courtesy. To greet politely: "Magandang umaga po." (Good morning).

Conversely, using the informal "you" and omitting "po" can be reserved for intimate or friendly settings. Filipinos greatly appreciate when a foreigner makes the effort to use these respect markers.

Gestures and Nonverbal Codes to Know

Nonverbal communication plays an important role:

• Pagmamano: touching an elder’s hand to your forehead to show respect.
• Lip pointing: pointing a direction with the lips (rather than the finger, which is impolite).
• Beso-beso: friendly cheek-to-cheek greeting among close people.
• Slight head nod when asking to pass or greeting.
• A smile: universal and very appreciated, especially to accompany modest verbal exchanges in Tagalog.
• Avoid prolonged eye contact: it can be perceived as aggressive.

Regional Differences and Local Expressions

Depending on your itinerary, you will likely hear:

• "Maupay" (hello in Waray)
• "Marhay" (hello in Bikol)
• "Kaon" (eat in Cebuano) But Tagalog remains understood in all main tourist centers and serves as a bridge between different regional cultures.

Practical Tagalog: Tips for Good Communication

• Speak slowly; Filipinos will appreciate your efforts even if imperfect.
• Smile, be patient and accompany your speech with "po" or "opo".
• Prefer to ask questions in English if you hit a language barrier: "Do you speak English?": "Marunong ka bang magsalita ng English?"
• Never raise your voice; stay warm and avoid direct criticism.
• Learn a few regional words if you leave big cities for a more authentic immersion!

Key Tagalog or Filipino Expressions

Questions

Expressions for Transport and Shopping

• Paki-hinto po dito!: Please stop here (very useful in jeepneys or tricycles)
• Saan po ang hintuan ng jeepney/bus?: Where is the jeepney/bus stop?
• Magkano po ang pamasahe papunta sa [place]?: How much is the fare to [place]?
• Paano pumunta sa…?: How to go to…?
• Magkano po ito?: How much is this? (market, shop)
• Maaari ba itong tawaran?: Can the price be negotiated?
• Mayroon ba kayong mas mura?: Do you have something cheaper?
• Kailangan ko po ng resibo.: I need a receipt.

Time and Appointments

At the Restaurant

Some Useful Words

Numbers and Days of the Week

Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

• Practice the basics daily, by listening or speaking.
• Always use "po" in all formal interactions.
• Don’t be surprised by the "p" replacing "f" sometimes: "pish" instead of "fish", "kopi" for "coffee".
• Crucial point: accept at least one bite when invited to eat – completely refusing is often seen as rude!
• Never point with a finger: prefer the lip gesture to indicate something.
• When in doubt, politely ask "Paki-ulit po" (Please repeat).

With this glossary, Shanti Travel’s travelers can confidently approach daily life in the Philippines, build richer connections with locals, and open up to the exceptional diversity of this unique archipelago in Asia.