How to Say Expensive in Philippines: A Guide to Formal and Informal Ways

In the Philippines, where the people are known for their warm hospitality and vibrant culture, it can be useful to know how to express yourself in the local language. When it comes to talking about prices or expressing that something is expensive, there are various ways to do so. This guide will provide you with the formal and informal ways to say “expensive” in the Philippines, along with some regional variations if necessary. So, let’s dive into the different ways to express this concept!

Formal Ways to Say Expensive

When you want to use formal language to describe something as expensive in the Philippines, you can use the following phrases:

1. Mahal – This is the most common word used to say “expensive” in Filipino. It can be used in formal and informal settings, making it a versatile word to express the concept of high prices. For example, you can say “Ang halaga niya ay mahal” (That has a high value).
2. Pantakip-presyo – This phrase specifically refers to something with a high price tag. It can be used in formal settings when discussing products or services. For example, you can say “Ang mga gamit sa tindahan na iyon ay pantakip-presyo” (The items in that store are expensive).
3. Mahalaga – Although more commonly used to mean “important,” mahalaga can also be used to describe something as expensive in a formal context. For example, you can say “Ang presyo nito ay mahalaga” (Its price is expensive).

Informal Ways to Say Expensive

If you prefer to use informal language to talk about high prices, the following expressions will come in handy:

1. Sobrang mahal – This phrase is more commonly used among friends or acquaintances to convey that something is really expensive. It emphasizes the high cost of an item or service. For example, you can say “Ang cellphone na ‘yan ay sobrang mahal” (That cellphone is really expensive).
2. Kasing mahal ng langit – Literally translating to “as expensive as the sky,” this phrase is often used conversationally to exaggerate the price of something. It’s a light-hearted way to convey that something is extremely expensive. For example, you can say “Grabe, ang presyo nito ay kasing mahal ng langit” (Wow, the price of this is as expensive as the sky).
3. Barat – While not directly meaning “expensive,” barat is a term used informally to describe someone who is stingy or unwilling to spend money. It can be used to indirectly imply that something is expensive. For example, you can say “Hindi ka ba bibili? Huwag kang maging barat!” (Aren’t you going to buy? Don’t be stingy!).

Regional Variations

While the phrases mentioned above are widely understood across the Philippines, it’s worth noting that there may be regional variations or dialect-specific expressions. Here are a few examples:

“Mahal” -> “Mahalay” (Cebuano dialect)

“Mahalaga” -> “Hingpit nga mahimutang” (Bisaya dialect)

“Sobrang mahal” -> “Grabe ka taas” (Ilonggo dialect)

These variations may provide insight into the rich diversity of languages spoken in different regions of the Philippines. If you happen to be interacting with locals in a specific area, it can be a delightful opportunity to learn and use their regional expressions.

Tips and Examples

Here are some additional tips and examples to help you further understand how to use the phrases mentioned:

• When expressing the price of an item, it’s common to use the phrase “Ang presyo ay” (The price is) followed by the term for expensive. For example, “Ang presyo ay mahal.”
• When stating that something is expensive, you can use the phrase “Ang _______ ay mahal” (The _______ is expensive) and fill in the blank with the item or service you’re referring to. For example, “Ang sasakyan ay mahal” (The car is expensive).
• It’s important to consider your tone and context when using these phrases. In general, the Filipino people appreciate politeness and respect, so it’s best to use the formal expressions when speaking with people you don’t know well or in professional settings.
• If you’re unsure of the exact price, you can use the phrase “Medyo mahal” (A bit expensive) to indicate that something is relatively pricey, but not excessively so.

By familiarizing yourself with these different ways to express “expensive” in the Philippines, you’ll be better equipped to navigate conversations about prices during your stay. Remember to be polite, have a friendly attitude, and don’t be afraid to ask locals for help or clarification. Enjoy your time in the Philippines, and happy travels!