marunong akong mag-Tagalog
To say "I can speak tagalog" in Tagalog, use marunong akong mag-Tagalog.
This phrase is used to state that you have the ability or proficiency to speak the Tagalog language.
What does it mean word for word?
The word marunong literally means to know how to or to be skilled in something. The word akong is a combination of the pronoun ako (I) and the linker -ng. The term mag-Tagalog uses the prefix mag- to turn the noun Tagalog into a verb meaning to speak or use the language.
Which one should you use?
The phrase marunong akong mag-Tagalog implies a level of proficiency or skill. In contrast, using kaya in a phrase like Kaya kong magsalita ng Tagalog implies a more basic physical or situational capability.
How does it change in a sentence?
In the sentence structure marunong akong mag-Tagalog, the adjective or indicator of ability marunong comes first, followed by the subject ako and the verb mag-Tagalog.
Did you know?
- The term Tagalog comes from the word taga-ilog, meaning 'from the river'. This originally described the people living along the banks of the Pasig River in Manila.
- The word marunong is rooted in dunong, which means 'knowledge' or 'wisdom'. When you say you can speak the language, you are literally saying you possess the 'wisdom' to use it.
- While marunong describes a learned skill, Filipinos often use the word bihasa to describe someone who is truly fluent or expert. A person might be marunong but not yet bihasa.
Examples in context
- Sa opisina, maari akong magsalita ng Tagalog.In the office, I can speak Tagalog.
- Bilang isang turista, ako po'y nakakapagsalita ng Tagalog.As a tourist, I am able to speak Tagalog.
- Mga kaibigan, kaya kong magsalita ng Tagalog.Friends, I can speak Tagalog.
- Sapat na ang alam ko, marunong akong mag-Tagalog.What I know is enough, I can speak Tagalog.
Example conversation
Maria and Juan are meeting for the first time at a social event.
- MariaJuan, marunong ka bang mag-Tagalog?Juan, can you speak Tagalog?
- JuanOo, marunong akong mag-Tagalog.Yes, I can speak Tagalog.
- MariaMabuti naman kung ganun.That's good then.
- JuanIkaw ba, Maria, marunong ka ring mag-Tagalog?How about you, Maria, can you speak Tagalog too?
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries marunong, CC BY-SA 4.0.
