Oo, pakiusap
/ˈʔoʔo pakiˈʔusap/word by word
The English phrase "yes, please" is translated into Tagalog as Oo, pakiusap.
This phrase is used as a polite way to accept an offer or to request something.
Which one should you use?
You may encounter other formal variations such as Opo, pakisuyo. or Opo, sige. The latter can also mean "Yes, go ahead."
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈʔoʔo pakiˈʔusap/
Did you know?
- While Oo means 'yes', the related word usap in pakiusap actually means 'to talk' or 'conversation'. A polite request is literally framed as an invitation to discuss the matter.
- In the Philippines, saying Oo, pakiusap can sometimes sound overly formal or even slightly dramatic, as if you are making a solemn plea.
- The root of the word pakiusap is shared with the Malay word ucap, which relates to speaking or words.
Examples in context
- Gusto niyo bang sumama sa aming paglalakbay? – Opo, sige.Do you want to join our trip? – Yes, please.
Example conversation
Angela and Jose are at the dinner table.
- AngelaGusto mo ba ng higit pang kanin, Jose?Do you want more rice, Jose?
- JoseOo, pakiusap, Angela.Yes, please, Angela.
- AngelaHeto na ang kanin mo.Here is your rice.
- JoseSalamat sa iyo.Thank you.
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (oo, pakiusap) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries oo, pakiusap, CC BY-SA 4.0.
