iyo
The Bicol word for "yes" is iyo.
iyo is used as a particle to indicate agreement or acceptance. It can function as a simple affirmation or as a way to confirm that a statement is correct.
Meaning: word used to indicate agreement or acceptance (particle)
Which one should you use?
While iyo is a standard way to agree, Oo. is also a way to say yes, and Oho. is a variation used specifically for certain contexts.
Did you know?
- The Bicolano iyo is a linguistic 'false friend' to Tagalog speakers, as it means 'yes' in Bicol but translates to 'yours' in Tagalog.
- If you want to say 'yes' with extreme politeness to an elder, you might use a version of opo borrowed from Tagalog, despite it not being native to Bicol.
- When listening to a long story, a Bicolano listener might use iyo, iyo as a backchanneling device to show they are following, which is different from answering a direct question.
Examples in context
- Iyo, tama ka.Yes, you are right.
- Iyo, mabalos sa saimo.Yes, thank you.
- Iyo, duman an harong ko.Yes, my house is there.
Example conversation
Ricardo asks Maria if she is hungry.
- MariaRicardo, gutom ka na?Ricardo, are you hungry?
- RicardoIyo, Maria. Gusto ko na magkaon.Yes, Maria. I want to eat now.
- MariaMagkaon kita sa gwa.Let's eat outside.
- RicardoSige, duman kita.Okay, let's go there.
