ang ganda mo
/ʔaŋ ɡanˈda mo/word by word
To say "you look beautiful" in Tagalog, use ang ganda mo.
This phrase is a compliment used to tell someone that they are physically attractive. While it literally translates to "the beauty you," it is the most natural way to express that someone looks beautiful in a compliment.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of ang (the/marker), ganda (beauty) and mo (you/your).
Which one should you use?
The standard form is ang ganda mo, but in casual speech, you may hear the linker -ng attached to the adjective to create Ang gandang mo.
How does it change in a sentence?
In Tagalog, the structure Ang [adjective] [subject] is used to express emphasis, effectively meaning "How [adjective] [subject]!" or "[Subject] is so [adjective]!" For example, Ang ganda mo! can be translated as "You are so beautiful!"
How do you pronounce it?
/ʔaŋ ɡanˈda mo/
Did you know?
- The word ganda originates from the Sanskrit word for 'fragrance' or 'aroma'. Over time the meaning shifted from how someone smells to how someone looks.
- In Filipino culture, a compliment like ang ganda mo is often met with a modest denial or a shy smile rather than a simple 'thank you'.
- If you want to be more formal or respectful, such as when speaking to an elder, you would replace mo with ninyo and add po to the phrase.
Examples in context
- Ang ganda mo ngayon.You look beautiful today.
- Ang ganda mo sa suot mong damit.You look beautiful in the dress you are wearing.
- Alam mo ba na ang ganda mo?Do you know that you are beautiful?
Example conversation
Juan and Christina are getting ready for a party.
- ChristinaJuan, okay na ba ang suot ko?Juan, does my outfit look okay?
- JuanOo, ang ganda mo talaga, Christina.Yes, you really look beautiful, Christina.
- ChristinaSalamat! Ang gwapo mo rin.Thanks! You look handsome too.
- JuanTara na, huli na tayo.Let's go, we're already late.
