takot
/taˈkot/
The Tagalog word for scared is takot.
takot is used to describe being afraid or frightened. To specify what you are scared of, use the construction takot sa followed by the object of your fear. You can also intensify the feeling by repeating the word with a linker, such as takot na takot, which means very scared or terrified.
Meaning: afraid, frightened (adj)
How does it change in a sentence?
While takot can function as an adjective describing a subject's state, it can be transformed into other forms. The verb natatakot is derived from the root word and emphasizes the ongoing act of feeling scared. The infinitive form matakot is used when expressing the action of becoming afraid or the need to avoid fear.
How do you pronounce it?
/taˈkot/
Did you know?
- The term is part of a linguistic lineage that stretches all the way to Rapa Nui in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.
- In Filipino culture, the phrase takot sa mumu refers to someone who is afraid of ghosts or imaginary monsters, often used to tease children.
- When Filipinos are extremely scared, they might use the expression kinabahan, which refers to a 'fluttering' or 'thumping' feeling in the chest.
Examples in context
- Takot na takot ako.I was scared stiff.This sentence shows how to express being extremely scared using the word takot.Tatoeba #11761674 by qwertzu, translation #754126 by CM
- Takot si Tom tumawid.Tom was scared to cross the road.This sentence demonstrates using takot to describe a person's fear of an action.Tatoeba #10170594 by theSardonyx, translation #8351703 by CK
- Takot sa karayom si Ziri.Ziri is scared of the needle.This sentence illustrates the construction takot sa to express being scared of a specific object.Tatoeba #11460659 by qwertzu, translation #10861967 by Amastan
- Huwag kang matakot. Ako ang kasama mo.Don't be scared. I'm with you.
- Natatakot ako sa mga malalaking ahas.I am scared of large snakes.
- Kinakabahan ako kapag may biglang kumakatok sa pinto.I get scared when someone suddenly knocks on the door.
- 'Pag binabasa ko ang libro na 'to, nagkakakaba ako.Every time I read this book, I get scared.
- Takot po ako sa dilim.I am scared of the dark.
- 12 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
A man is comforting a woman during a thunderstorm.
- JasmineTakot ka ba sa kulog?Are you afraid of the thunder?
- RicardoOo, takot ako.Yes, I am scared.
- JasmineHuwag kang matakot, nandito lang ako.Don't be afraid, I'm just here.
- RicardoSalamat, Ricardo.Thank you, Ricardo.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry takot, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries takot, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
