payat
/paˈjat/
The English word "skinny" is translated to Tagalog as payat.
The word payat is used for a person's body type.
Meaning: thin (adj)
Which one should you use?
The word payat is used for a person's body type, whereas slim or fit is often expressed as maganda ang pangangatawan (beautiful body) to avoid the negative connotation of being underweight.
How do you pronounce it?
/paˈjat/
Did you know?
- While payat describes a person, the word nipis is used for things that are skinny or thin, such as a piece of paper or a slice of meat.
- Unlike English where 'skinny' can be used for a 'skinny tie' or 'skinny jeans', Tagalog uses the word maliit (small) or masikip (tight) for these items.
- To describe someone who is 'too thin' in a way that implies they look sickly, Filipinos often use the word humpak, which refers to the hollowed-out appearance of the cheeks.
Examples in context
- Payat siya.He/She is skinny.
- Masyado siyang payat.He is too thin.
- Payat na payat ang bata.The child is very thin.
- Bakit ka naging payat?Why did you become thin?
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about a mutual acquaintance.
- RicardoPayat na si Juan ngayon.Juan is thin now.
- MariaOo, parang hindi na siya kumakain.Yes, it's like he isn't eating anymore.
- RicardoNag-aalala ako para sa kanya.I am worried about him.
- MariaSana ay maging maayos siya.I hope he will be okay.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry payat, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
