pakak, mars!
The English phrase "slay, bestie!" can be expressed in Tagalog as pakak, mars!
pakak, mars! is a slang exclamation of hype or praise. It is used to celebrate a friend who looks beautiful or has achieved something impressively well.
What does it mean word for word?
The term mars is a shortened, colloquial form of kumare (a term for a close female friend) and acts as a term of endearment similar to "bestie" or "girl".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The phrase pakak, mars! is highly informal. It is primarily used within LGBTQ+ subcultures and among close female friends in the Philippines.
When do people say it?
This expression is used to hype up a friend. While the specific phrase pakak, mars! is common in certain subcultures, you can also use other informal Tagalog expressions to praise a friend, such as Ang galing mo talaga, Bestie! to say they are amazing or Ang poging-pogi/magandang-maganda mo, Bestie! to tell them they are very handsome or beautiful.
Did you know?
- The word pakak originates from Swardspeak, a colorful linguistic code developed by the LGBTQ+ community in the Philippines to create a private space for communication.
- In Filipino culture, the use of mars can transcend biological gender, often used by men or non-binary individuals when addressing each other within close-knit friend groups.
- Using pakak often involves a dramatic physical gesture, such as a hand flick or a pose, to emphasize the 'slay' energy.
Examples in context
- Pakak, mars!Slay, bestie!
- Pakak, mars! Ang tapang ng look mo.Slay, bestie! Your look is so bold.
Example conversation
Ricardo and Jasmine are at a party and Jasmine just arrived in a stunning dress.
- RicardoPakak, mars! Sobrang ganda mo ngayon.Slay, bestie! You look so beautiful today.
- JasmineSalamat, Ricardo! Bagay ba sa akin?Thanks, Ricardo! Does it suit me?
- RicardoOo naman, talagang panalo ang look mo.Of course, your look is really a winner.
- JasmineHala, nakakahiya naman, pero thank you!Oh, I'm blushing, but thank you!
