How to Say “Delicious” in Filipino: A Guide to Formal and Informal Ways

When it comes to describing food in the Philippines, “delicious” is a word that truly captures the essence of Filipino cuisine. Whether you’re traveling to the beautiful islands or wanting to communicate your appreciation for Filipino dishes, knowing how to say “delicious” in Filipino is key. In this guide, we’ll explore both formal and informal ways to express this sentiment, providing you with tips, examples, and even regional variations.

Formal Ways to Say “Delicious” in Filipino

If you want to express your admiration for a delicious meal in a polite and formal manner, you can use the following phrases:

1. “Masarap”

The most common Filipino word for “delicious” is “masarap.” It can be used in a range of situations, from describing homemade meals to enjoying restaurant dishes.

Example: “Ang lutong ng adobo mo, masarap talaga!” (The flavor of your adobo is really delicious!)

2. “Napakasarap”

If you want to emphasize just how delicious something is, you can use the term “napakasarap.” This word carries a stronger emphasis on the taste and is often used to express sheer delight over a dish.

Example: “Napakasarap ng lechon mo! Hindi ko maipinta ang sarap!” (Your lechon is incredibly delicious! I can’t even describe the taste!)

Informal Ways to Say “Delicious” in Filipino

When speaking to friends, family, or in casual settings, you can opt for more informal ways to describe something as “delicious.” Here are a few commonly used phrases:

1. “Sarap”

“Sarap” is a shorter and more casual equivalent of “masarap.” It captures the same meaning but is often used in everyday conversations.

Example: “Uy, sarap ng kare-kare mo ah!” (Hey, your kare-kare is really delicious!)

2. “Lami”

While primarily used in the Visayan region of the Philippines, the word “lami” is understood by many Filipinos and can be used to express how delicious something tastes.

Example: “Lami kaayo ning siomai nimo dong!” (Your siomai is extremely delicious, dude!)

Regional Variations

The Philippines is a diverse country with various regional languages and dialects. While the previously mentioned words are understood nationwide, it’s important to note some regional variations:

1. “Marasa/Masarasa” (Ilocano)

In the Ilocano language, spoken primarily in the northern part of the Philippines, “marasa” or “masarasa” can be used to describe something as delicious.

2. “Malamat” (Kapampangan)

If you find yourself indulging in Kapampangan cuisine, spoken in the province of Pampanga, using “malamat” to describe the food’s deliciousness would be fitting.

Tips for Using “Delicious” in Filipino

Now that we’ve explored the various ways to say “delicious” in Filipino, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

1. Combine with Other Phrases

To add emphasis or to be more descriptive, you can combine the word “delicious” with other Filipino phrases such as “ang sarap” (it’s delicious) or “ang lasa” (the taste is…).

Example: “Ang sarap ng sinigang mo, ang lasa parang luto ng nanay ko!” (Your sinigang is so delicious, the taste is like my mom’s cooking!)

2. Add Expressions of Appreciation

When complimenting someone’s cooking, adding an expression of gratitude or appreciation can make your words even more heartfelt. Some common phrases include “salamat” (thank you) or “namit guid” (really tasty).

Example: “Salamat sa paboritong kakanin mo, ang sarap talaga!” (Thank you for your favorite kakanin, it’s really delicious!)

3. Try Local Dishes

To enhance your gastronomic experience, it’s worthwhile to try regional specialties and use the appropriate local word for “delicious.” This will not only impress your Filipino friends but also showcase your appreciation for their diverse cuisine.