mahal kita, tatay
/maˈhal kiˈta ˈtataj/word by word
The English phrase "I love you, dad" is expressed in Tagalog as mahal kita, tatay.
This phrase is used to express affection toward one's father. Depending on the level of intimacy and respect, several variations exist. You can use mahal kita, tatay as a standard expression or more casual terms like Papa or Tay.
Which one should you use?
While tatay is a common way to say "dad," you can also use itay or tay in more casual or regional settings.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
To express love respectfully, especially in formal settings or traditional households, you should use the polite forms. Instead of the standard kita, use the particles po and kayo to show respect, such as in Minamahal ko po kayo, Tatay. or mahal ko po kayo, tatay. The term Ama is the formal word for father, and Iniibig kita, Ama ko. is an expression for saying I love you to a father. Conversely, Papa is an informal and affectionate way to refer to a father.
How do you pronounce it?
/maˈhal kiˈta ˈtataj/
Did you know?
- In traditional Filipino households, expressing love to a father is often accompanied by pagmamano, the gesture of pressing the father's hand to one's forehead.
- The word mahal used in 'i love you' also means 'expensive' in Tagalog. This is because things that cost a lot are viewed as precious.
- The polite form Minamahal ko po kayo uses the pronoun kayo, which is normally the plural 'you' but is used here as a singular respectful form.
Examples in context
- Tay, ikaw ang pinakamahalagang tao sa buhay ko. Mahal kita hanggang sa kahuli-hulihang hininga.Dad, you are the most important person in my life. I love you until my last breath.
- Papa, salamat sa lahat ng pagmamahal at pang-unawa. Mahal kita nang sobra!Dad, thank you for all the love and understanding. I love you so much!
- Itay, ikaw ang pinakamalakas at pinakamatapang na tao sa mundo. Mahal na mahal kita!Dad, you are the strongest and bravest person in the world. I love you very much!
- Salamat sa lahat, mahal kita, tatay.Thank you for everything, I love you, dad.
- Gusto ko lang sabihin na mahal kita, tatay.I just want to say that I love you, dad.
Example conversation
Christina is giving her father a birthday gift.
- MarkHappy birthday po! Mahal kita, tatay.Happy birthday! I love you, dad.
- ChristinaSalamat, anak. Mahal din kita.Thank you, child. I love you too.
- MarkSana magustuhan mo ang regalo ko.I hope you like my gift.
- ChristinaSiguradong magugustuhan ko ito.I am sure I will like it.
