ali
The English word 'no' is translated into Kapampangan as ali. Wiktionary also lists e.
Meaning: used to show disagreement or negation (particle)
Ways to say it
| Kapampangan |
|---|
| ali |
| e |
The word is used as a particle to show disagreement or negation.
Which one should you use?
While ali is used to negate a statement or answer a yes/no question, the related form alâ is used to indicate non-existence or the absence of something (meaning 'none' or 'there is no').
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The form ali is the standard form used for the direct negation of a yes/no question.
Did you know?
- The word ali can be traced back to the Proto-Austronesian root *adi, linking it to a vast family of languages across the Pacific and Southeast Asia.
- In many Kapampangan social contexts, a direct ali is often softened with facial expressions or tonal shifts to avoid sounding overly confrontational.
- Despite being used for negation, the form e can function as a subtle discourse marker in conversation rather than just a blunt 'no'.
Examples in context
- E mékíbat.He made no response.This sentence demonstrates the use of e.Tatoeba #4629593 by jeronimoconstantina, translation #510864 by wma
- Ali ku mako keni.I will not leave here.
- Ali ya mikaun.He did not eat.
Example conversation
Ricardo asks Cristina if she is tired.
- RicardoMapagal ka na, Cristina?Are you tired already, Cristina?
- CristinaAli, ayos ku pa.No, I am still okay.
- RicardoSige, tuglug na ta.Alright, let's go to sleep.
- CristinaAli, gawa ku pa.No, I am still doing something.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “no” translations and entries ali, e, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ali, e, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
