tita at tito
/ˈtita ʔat ˈtito/word by word
The English phrase 'aunt and uncle' is translated into Filipino as tita at tito.
This phrase refers to the sister and the brother of one's parent. In the Philippines, the individual terms tita and tito are frequently used as honorifics for any older woman or man, even if they are not biological relatives.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
tita at tito is the common, informal way to refer to aunts and uncles, derived from Spanish. For a more formal or traditional Filipino way to say aunt and uncle, you may use tiya at tiyo.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word at is the standard conjunction used to connect tita and tito.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈtita ʔat ˈtito/
Did you know?
- While tita and tito are terms for relatives, the word tito is also a homonym for 'pig tripe' borrowed from Hokkien Chinese.
- Filipinos often use tita as a playful or slightly critical label for an older woman who possesses a specific brand of 'refined' or 'fancy' middle-class taste.
- The structure of tita at tito reflects the Spanish influence on the Philippines, as the original indigenous languages had different systems for distinguishing maternal and paternal aunts and uncles.
Examples in context
- Tito Mario, can you help me with this?Uncle Mario, can you help me with this?
- Nandito ang tita at tito ko.My aunt and uncle are here.
- Masaya ang tita at tito sa party.The aunt and uncle are happy at the party.
- Tinawagan ko ang tita at tito ko.I called my aunt and uncle.
Example conversation
Antonio and Patricia are talking about a family reunion.
- PatriciaAntonio, nasaan ang tita at tito ko?Antonio, where are my aunt and uncle?
- AntonioNasa kusina ang tita at tito mo.Your aunt and uncle are in the kitchen.
- PatriciaSalamat sa tulong, Antonio.Thanks for the help, Antonio.
- AntonioWalang anuman, Patricia.You're welcome, Patricia.
