napakacute
In Tagalog, "so cute" is expressed as napakacute.
This phrase is used to describe something or someone that is very adorable.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is formed by adding the prefix napa- (or napaka-) to the English loanword "cute". The prefix napa- (or napaka-) functions as an intensifier meaning "very" or "extremely".
Which one should you use?
While napakacute is an emphatic way to say "very cute", the form ang cute is a more common, conversational way to say "so cute". Additionally, nakakacute is a related form used to describe something that *causes* a feeling of cuteness.
How does it change in a sentence?
Because "cute" is a borrowed English word, it is treated as an adjective that can be preceded by the intensifier napaka- to form a single word.
Did you know?
- In the Philippines, cute is frequently used as a euphemism to describe someone who is physically attractive or handsome, moving beyond just 'adorable' to mean 'good-looking'.
- Depending on the tone, Ang cute! can be used sarcastically to describe something that is actually annoying or pretentious.
- Tagalog speakers often pair ang cute with a high-pitched, elongated vowel sound to increase the intensity of the emotion without adding more words.
Examples in context
- Napakacute ng iyong alagang kuting.Your kitten is so cute.
- Napakacute ng suot mong damit.The clothes you are wearing are so cute.
- Napakacute ng baby sa video.The baby in the video is so cute.
Example conversation
Angela shows Ricardo a photo of her new puppy.
- AngelaTingnan mo ang bago kong aso!Look at my new dog!
- RicardoHala, napakacute niya!Oh my, it's so cute!
- AngelaSalamat, Ricardo!Thank you, Ricardo!
- RicardoPwede ko ba siyang hawakan?Can I hold it?
