How to Say “Goodbye” in Ilocano

By Gregory Jackson • Updated October 1, 2026

Dios ti agngina

The English phrase "goodbye" is translated into Ilocano as Dios ti agngina.

Dios ti agngina is used as a farewell to say goodbye.

Meaning: farewell (intj)

What does it mean word for word?

The phrase literally translates to "God will reward (you)" or "God will give thanks/reward".

Did you know?

The term agngina implies a divine repayment, suggesting that the speaker cannot personally repay the kindness of the person they are leaving.
The word Dios comes from the Spanish word for 'God', reflecting the heavy influence of Spanish colonial history on the Ilocano language.
While used as a 'goodbye', Dios ti agngina is primarily a way to say 'thank you'. In many Ilocano communities, the act of thanking someone is conceptually linked to the act of departing.

Example conversation

Angel and Juan are finishing their conversation at the door.

Angel

Dios ti agngina, Juan.
Goodbye, Juan.
Juan

Dios ti agngina met, Angel.
Goodbye too, Angel.
Angel

Agsurot akon itan.
I will head out now.
Juan

Agannad ka dita.
Take care on your way.

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About The Author

Gregory Jackson

Kumusta! I'm Gregory, your friendly guide to the Filipino language, Tagalog. My passion for languages, especially Tagalog, propels me into writing posts filled with formal and informal ways of expressing yourself in this vibrant language. From everyday greetings like "Good Evening", to unusual phrases such as "pak" or "nga", I've got you covered! I also have an obsession with food which often reflects in my posts — from "cereal" to "spaghetti", expect a dash of yummy in my content. I also write about Ilocano, the language of northern Luzon, sharing how everyday words are said in it. Mabuhay!

Gregory JacksonHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.

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