Welcome to this guide on how to say “rock paper scissors” in Filipino! Whether you’re looking to learn some Filipino vocabulary or simply want to challenge someone to a friendly game, this guide will help you master the formal and informal ways of expressing this classic game in the Filipino language.
Table of Contents
Formal Way to Say Rock Paper Scissors
When it comes to formal expressions, Filipino speakers typically use the phrase “Bato, Papel, Gunting.” Each word in this phrase represents rock, paper, and scissors, respectively.
Let’s break down each term:
- Bato: This Filipino word translates to “rock.” It derives from the Tagalog language, which is one of the major languages spoken in the Philippines. Bato is the solid object you use when forming a fist, representing the “rock” in the game.
- Papel: Papel refers to “paper.” Just like in English, it represents the sheet of paper that covers the rock or the hand gesture resembling a flat hand, as if holding a sheet.
- Gunting: Gunting means “scissors.” It represents the tool used for cutting, resembling the hand gesture where the index and middle fingers are extended, forming a V shape.
An example of using these formal terms in a sentence would be:
“Tara, maglaro tayong Bato, Papel, Gunting!”
Translation: “Let’s play Rock, Paper, Scissors!”
Informal Way to Say Rock Paper Scissors
In informal or casual conversations, it is not uncommon for Filipinos to use the English term “rock paper scissors” itself. Due to the influence of the English language on Filipino culture, many Filipinos, especially the younger generation, are familiar with the English phrases for various games and activities.
An example of using the English phrase in an informal setting:
“Hey, let’s play rock paper scissors!”
Translation: “Hey, maglaro tayo ng rock paper scissors!”
Using the English term is widely understood and will likely be recognized by Filipinos of different ages and regions.
Additional Tips and Regional Variations
In some regions of the Philippines, local languages include their own terms for rock paper scissors. Here are a few regional variations:
Cebuano (Visayan Region)
In Cebuano, which is spoken in the Visayan region, the following terms are commonly used:
- Batu, Papel, Kagot: Batu represents “rock,” papel means “paper,” and kagot translates to “scissors.”
- Batu, Papel, Gantsilyo: Gantsilyo means “scissors” in Cebuano, creating an interesting regional variation.
Ilocano (Ilocos Region)
In the Ilocos region, which is known for the Ilocano language, the terms are slightly different:
- Bato, Papel, Gunting: Just like in the formal Filipino term, Ilocano uses “bato” for rock, “papel” for paper, and “gunting” for scissors.
- Ragas, Papel, Gunting: “Ragas” is an Ilocano term for “rock,” which is occasionally used instead of “bato.”
Keep in mind that the informal English term “rock paper scissors” is still widely recognized and understood throughout the Philippines, regardless of region.
Conclusion
Now you know how to say “rock paper scissors” in both formal and informal ways in Filipino! Remember, the formal Filipino term is “Bato, Papel, Gunting,” while the English term “rock paper scissors” is commonly used in informal situations.
Feel free to engage in friendly games and challenge your Filipino friends with these phrases. Enjoy the excitement and fun that rock paper scissors brings, regardless of the language you use!
