sika
/ˈsi.ka/
In Ilocano, 'you' is expressed as sika.
The term is a subject pronoun used to address the person being spoken to.
Meaning: subject pronoun: the person being addressed (pron)
Which one should you use?
sika is used when addressing a single person. To address multiple people, or to show respect to one person, use kayo.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form sika is used specifically for the singular 'you'.
How do you pronounce it?
Pronounced as /ˈsi.ka/. The stress is on the first of two syllables.
Did you know?
- The word sika descends from the Proto-Austronesian root *si and the Proto-Malayo-Polynesian root *ka.
- While sika is the singular 'you', using it to address an elder or a person of authority can be perceived as a direct insult or a sign of deep disrespect.
- The plural form kayo, which is also used to show respect to a single person, can be used to create a sense of 'polite distance' in formal negotiations.
Examples in context
- Sika a mismo ti nangibaga.You said so yourself.This sentence shows how to use sika to emphasize that someone said something themselves.Tatoeba #4677326 by saluyot, translation #2646672 by CK
- Sika ken siak, aggayyemta.You and I, we are friends.This sentence demonstrates using sika in the context of a relationship between two people.Tatoeba #4704664 by saluyot, translation #3548993 by niceguydave
- Agsublika ditoy, sika a takrot.Come back here, you coward.This sentence illustrates a way to use sika when addressing someone directly in a hostile manner.Tatoeba #4661343 by saluyot, translation #3732685 by CK
- 8 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Manuel and Angel are talking about who will cook dinner.
- ManuelSika ti agluto itoy, Angel.You are the one to cook this time, Angel.
- AngelApay sika ti nagsao ana?Why did you say that?
- ManuelNaimas ta sika ti agluto.Because it's delicious when you cook.
- AngelSige, sika ti mangisagana ti ramen.Alright, you prepare the ingredients.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry sika, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries sika, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
