mataba ka
/mataˈbaʔ ka/word by word
In Filipino, "you're fat" is said as mataba ka.
The phrase is used to state that someone has a large body. It is important to note that while mataba is a direct description of body fat, it is often perceived as more blunt or offensive in Filipino culture than in English, depending on the tone used.
What does it mean word for word?
mataba means fat and ka is the pronoun for you.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
For a more polite or respectful approach, you should use mataba po kayo. There are also informal ways to express this, such as Ang taba mo! or the casual comment Grabe, ang laki ng katawan mo!, which translates to "Wow, your body is so big!" In a formal context, you might also use Malaman din po ang katawan ninyo, meaning "Your body is also big".
How does it change in a sentence?
In this common sentence structure, the adjective mataba typically precedes the pronoun ka.
How do you pronounce it?
/mataˈbaʔ ka/
Did you know?
- In the Philippines, mentioning someone's weight upon meeting them is often a common social greeting rather than a criticism.
- While mataba describes a person, the root word taba can also be used to describe rich, fertile soil in an agricultural context.
- While English speakers use 'fat' as a heavy descriptor, Filipinos might use 'malusog' (healthy) as a euphemism to avoid the bluntness of mataba.
Examples in context
- Sabi nila, mataba ka.They say you are fat.
Example conversation
Jose and Maria are talking about their recent weight changes.
- JuanMaria, mataba ka na.Maria, you are fat now.
- MariaOo, dahil hindi na ako nag-eensayo.Yes, because I am not exercising anymore.
- JuanKailangan mong mag-diet.You need to go on a diet.
- MariaSusubukan ko, Jose.I will try, Jose.
