nag-aaral ako ng tagalog
To say "I am learning tagalog" in Tagalog, use nag-aaral ako ng tagalog.
This phrase is used to state that you are currently in the process of studying the Tagalog language. It is a natural way to introduce your current activities when speaking to a native speaker.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the verb nag-aaral (studying), the pronoun ako (I) and the object marker ng followed by the language name.
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb nag-aaral is in the imperfective aspect, which indicates that the action of studying is ongoing or continuous.
Did you know?
- The spelling of the word ng was once written with a tilde as ng̃ to show a nasal sound. This changed because American typewriters during the occupation of the Philippines could not easily produce the tilde.
- In the Philippines, people often distinguish between Tagalog as the specific regional language and Filipino as the national language. While they are based on the same grammar, Filipino officially incorporates more loanwords from English and Spanish.
Examples in context
- Ako ay nag-aaral ng Tagalog. Mahalagang kasanayan ito para sa akin.I am studying Tagalog. It is an important skill for me.
- Nag-aaral ako ng Tagalog para sa trabaho ko.I am learning Tagalog for my job.
- Nag-aaral ako ng Tagalog ngayon sa paaralan.I am learning Tagalog now at school.
- Nag-aaral ako ng Tagalog para makausap ang pamilya ko.I am learning Tagalog to talk to my family.
Example conversation
Jose and Maria are talking at a local cafe.
- JoseMaria, nag-aaral ako ng Tagalog.Maria, I am learning Tagalog.
- MariaTalaga? Ang galing mo naman, Jose!Really? You are so good, Jose!
- JoseSalamat, pero mahirap pa rin.Thanks, but it is still difficult.
- MariaKaya mo yan, magtiyaga ka lang.You can do it, just be patient.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ako, ng, CC BY-SA 4.0.
