Whether you’re planning to get a tattoo in the Philippines or just want to expand your knowledge of the local language, knowing how to say “tattoo” is essential. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to express this term. While there may be regional variations across the country, we’ll primarily focus on widely used terms. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Tattoo
If you prefer a more formal approach when discussing tattoos in the Philippines, you can use the following term:
Tato
This is the formal and widely recognized word for “tattoo” in the Filipino language. It encompasses the concept of permanent body art and is appropriate for use in formal settings, such as when discussing tattoos with professionals, educators, or during official conversations.
Informal Ways to Say Tattoo
When you want to express the idea of a tattoo casually or in an informal conversation, you can use the following terms:
- Kalaman – This term is often used among friends or peers and carries a sense of familiarity. It is commonly employed when talking about tattoos in a relaxed setting.
- Tite – Another informal term for tattoo, often used in friendly conversations or when discussing tattoos with acquaintances. It adds a touch of colloquialism to the conversation.
- Marka – While not exclusively used for tattoos, “marka” refers to any kind of mark or symbol on the body, including tattoos. It’s an informal way to talk about tattoos in a casual context.
Regional Variations
While there might be slight variations in the local terminology across different regions of the Philippines, the formal and informal terms mentioned above are widely understood throughout the country. However, it’s important to note that local dialects may have their own unique words for tattoos. Here are some examples of regional variations:
Ilocano
In the Ilocano dialect, the term for tattoo is Batek. This word is commonly used in the Ilocos region and among Ilocano speakers.
Cebuano
Cebuano speakers often use the term Linu-ok to refer to tattoos. This term is predominantly used in the Central Visayas region.
Waray
People who speak Waray, especially in the Eastern Visayas region, use the word Tasak when talking about tattoos. This term represents the local variation for tattoo in this region.
Tips for Using Tattoo Terms
Here are some tips to keep in mind when using the terms for tattoo in the Philippines:
- Context matters: Consider the setting and the people you are conversing with. Use the appropriate term accordingly. Formal settings call for the formal term “Tato,” while informal conversations allow for the use of “Kalaman,” “Tite,” or “Marka.”
- Respect local dialects: If you find yourself in a specific region where a unique term for tattoo exists, it’s always appreciated to use the local variation. This shows respect for the local culture and language.
- Be open to learning: The Philippines is a diverse country with numerous languages and dialects. Embrace the opportunity to learn more about the local languages and customs.
Examples
Here are a few examples of how you can use these terms in sentences:
“I’m planning to get a tato on my arm.”
“Hey, check out my new kalaman! It’s a symbol of freedom.”
“Did you see Sarah’s tite? It’s so unique and artistic!”
“He has a marka on his back that represents his heritage.”
“I’m fascinated by the batek designs of the Ilocano people.”
“In Cebu, many locals proudly display traditional linu-ok artwork.”
“Her arm is adorned with beautiful tasak that narrate her life story.”
Remember, these are just a few examples, and you can mix and match the terms to suit your conversations according to the appropriate level of formality or informality.
Now that you have a comprehensive understanding of how to say “tattoo” in the Philippines, you’ll be well-prepared for any tattoo-related discussions or interactions you may encounter. Enjoy your journey in exploring the rich linguistic diversity of the beautiful country!
