susmaryosep
In Tagalog, 'sus' is an interjection used to express 'sus'.
The phrase is used as an interjection to express shock, exasperation, dismay or surprise.
What does it mean word for word?
susmaryosep is a portmanteau of the Spanish names Jesús (Jesus), María (Mary) and José (Joseph).
Which one should you use?
sus is a common colloquial way to express the same sentiment as the full susmaryosep. Susme! is a shortened version used to show incredulity or annoyance, while susmaryosep is a more playful and exaggerated version that typically conveys surprise or shock.
When do people say it?
The phrase reflects the deep-rooted Catholic influence in Filipino culture and language.
Did you know?
- The 'sus' in susmaryosep traces its ultimate origin back to the Biblical Hebrew word hoshéa, meaning 'salvation'.
- In some traditional Filipino households, saying susmaryosep too loudly or frequently can be seen as 'blasphemous' by elders, even though the phrase is widely accepted in pop culture.
- Filipinos often pair susmaryosep with a specific physical gesture, such as slapping the forehead or crossing oneself, to amplify the level of shock.
Examples in context
- Susmaryosep, ang dumi ng sapatos ko!Good heavens, my shoes are so dirty!
- Susmaryosep, ang mahal naman nito.Goodness, this is so expensive.
- Susmaryosep, nakalimutan ko ang pitaka ko!Oh my goodness, I forgot my wallet!
Example conversation
Maria and Mark are surprised by the sudden heavy rain.
- MarkSusmaryosep, ang lakas ng ulan!Good heavens, the rain is so heavy!
- MariaOo nga, Mark, mababasa tayo.Yes, Mark, we are going to get wet.
- MarkKailangan nating magtakbo sa loob.We need to run inside.
- MariaBilisan mo, baka sipunin tayo.Hurry, or we might catch a cold.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries susmaryosep, CC BY-SA 4.0.
