agannad ka
To say "take care" in Ilocano, use agannad ka.
It can also serve as a literal warning to be cautious in a dangerous situation.
Meaning: good-bye (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The expression is composed of the verb annad (to be careful or cautious) with the prefix ag- and the second-person singular pronoun ka (you).
Which one should you use?
While used as a parting phrase like "take care", agannad ka can also be used as a literal warning to "be careful" in a dangerous situation.
How does it change in a sentence?
To say 'take care' to more than one person or to show respect to an elder, change the pronoun ka to kayo to form agannad kayo.
Did you know?
- In the Philippines, saying agannad ka may be accompanied by a gesture of 'mano', where a younger person takes an elder's hand and presses it to their own forehead as a sign of respect.
- Because Ilocano is spoken across different provinces, the pronunciation of agannad ka can vary slightly in cadence between the Ilocos region and those who speak it in Hawaii.
- Using the singular ka when speaking to a person of high status or an elder is a common mistake that can signal a lack of upbringing.
Examples in context
- Agannad ka dita.Take care there.
- Agannad ka latta, kabsat.Always take care, sibling.
- Sige, agannad ka.Okay, take care.
Example conversation
Manuel and Rowena are parting ways at the bus station.
- ManuelAgay ti biag ko no awanka.My life is empty without you.
- RowenaAgannad ka latta, Manuel.Always take care, Manuel.
- ManuelSige, agannad ka met, Rowena.Okay, you take care too, Rowena.
- RowenaAgyamanak, Dios ti agbiay.Thank you, God bless.
