Learning to say “What is it?” in Tagalog can be a useful phrase to communicate and understand the language better. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways of saying this phrase. Tagalog, the national language of the Philippines, is spoken by millions of people throughout the country. Let’s dive in and discover the different ways to ask “What is it?” in Tagalog.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “What is it?”
When you want to ask “What is it?” in a formal context, you can use the following phrases:
“Ano po ito?”
“Ito po, ano?”
The word “po” is used to show respect to the person you are speaking to, and it is commonly used in formal situations. These phrases can be used in various formal settings, such as when speaking to an authority figure, a stranger, in a business setting, or during a formal event.
Let’s break down these phrases:
- “Ano po ito?” – This phrase directly translates to “What is this?” and is commonly used to inquire about an object or thing.
- “Ito po, ano?” – This phrase translates to “This, what?” It can be used to ask for clarification or when pointing at something, seeking information about it.
Remember to use polite body language, such as maintaining eye contact, maintaining a respectful tone, and using appropriate gestures when using these phrases in formal situations.
Informal Ways to Say “What is it?”
In informal conversations, you can use the following phrases to ask “What is it?”:
“Ano ‘to?”
“Ito, ano?”
These phrases are commonly used in casual conversations with friends, family members, or acquaintances. The use of “po” is not necessary in informal settings.
Let’s examine these phrases more closely:
- “Ano ‘to?” – This phrase translates to “What’s this?” and is widely used in informal settings when referring to an object or thing.
- “Ito, ano?” – This phrase means “This, what?” It can be employed to ask for clarification or when pointing at something, wanting to know more about it.
Remember, in informal situations, focus on speaking with ease, using appropriate body language, and maintaining a friendly and conversational tone.
Examples and Tips
Here are a few examples and some valuable tips to help you master the usage of these phrases:
- Example 1:
Person A: “Ano po ito?”
Person B: “Iyan ay cellphone.” (That is a cellphone.)
Example 2:
Person A: “Ano ‘to?”
Person B: “Ito ay libro.” (This is a book.)
Tip 1:
Try practicing these phrases by pointing to various objects and asking “Ano ito?” (What is this?) to enhance your vocabulary and fluency.
Tip 2:
If you are unsure about the correct term for an object or thing, you can replace the noun with “ito” (pronounced as ee-toh), which means “this.”
Example 3:
Person A: “Ano ‘to?”
Person B: “Ito ay sustansiya ng pagkain.” (This is a food ingredient.)
Example 4:
Person A: “Ano po ito?”
Person B: “Iyan ay pampaligo.” (That is a bathing soap.)
Tip 3:
Don’t hesitate to use gestures while asking “What is it?” It can help facilitate understanding, particularly if you are still learning the language.
By learning these phrases and tips, you will improve your ability to communicate effectively in Tagalog and enhance your interactions with Filipino speakers.
Remember to practice, be patient with yourself, and have fun discovering the beauty of the Filipino language!
