matandang babae
The Tagalog phrase for old lady is matandang babae.
matandang babae is used to describe an elderly woman.
Meaning: informal: elderly woman (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of matanda (old) and babae (woman/female).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
While matandang babae is a descriptive term for an old woman, using it to refer directly to a person can sound blunt or slightly disrespectful in Filipino culture. For a more respectful and common way to refer to an elderly woman, use lola. Additionally, in formal settings or paperwork, the English loanword Senior citizen is commonly utilized in Tagalog.
How does it change in a sentence?
The linker -ng is attached to matanda to connect the adjective to the noun babae.
When do people say it?
To show affection or respect when referring to a grandmother or an elderly woman, the term lola is typically used.
Did you know?
- The root of babae traces back thousands of years to the Proto-Austronesian term *ba-bahi.
- The use of lola is part of a wider social system where honorary kinship terms are used to navigate social hierarchies.
- While matanda means 'old', it is also used as a noun to mean 'elder' or 'ancestor' in certain traditional contexts.
Examples in context
- Isang matandang babae ang tumatawid sa kalsada.An old lady is crossing the street.
- Nakatira ang matandang babae sa tapat ng simbahan.The old lady lives across from the church.
- Mabait ang matandang babaeng iyon.That old lady is kind.
Example conversation
Mark and Christina are walking in a public park.
- MarkNakita mo ba ang matandang babae na iyon?Did you see that old lady?
- ChristinaOo, mukhang kailangan niya ng tulong.Yes, she looks like she needs help.
- MarkPunta tayo sa kanya para tumulong.Let's go to her to help.
- ChristinaSige, tara na.Okay, let's go.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries babae, CC BY-SA 4.0.
