Filipino slang is an essential part of daily conversations in the Philippines. These informal words and phrases reflect the country’s dynamic culture, history, and evolving language trends. Understanding Filipino slang helps locals connect and allows foreigners to engage more naturally with native speakers. In this guide, we explore the most common Filipino slang words, their meanings, and how they are used in context.

What Is Filipino Slang?

Filipino slang consists of informal words and expressions used in casual conversations. It evolves through time and is influenced by Tagalog, Spanish, English, and even internet culture. Slang terms may originate from traditional words but often take on new meanings depending on usage and societal trends.

Common Filipino Slang Words and Their Meanings

General Slang

  • Lodi/Lods – Reversed syllables of “idol,” referring to someone admirable.
    • Example: “Ang galing mo, lodi!” (You’re so good, idol!)
  • Petmalu – Reversal of “malupit” (amazing, extreme, cool).
    • Example: “Petmalu ng bike mo!” (Your bike is so cool!)
  • Werpa – Reversal of “power,” used for encouragement.
    • Example: “Werpa sa’yo!” (Good luck to you!)
  • Shookt – Derived from “shocked,” used to express surprise.
    • Example: “Shookt ako sa nangyari!” (I was shocked by what happened!)
  • Awit – Derived from “Aw, sakit” (Ouch, that hurts).
    • Example: “Awit, iniwan niya ako.” (Ouch, they left me.)
  • Qiqil – Derived from “gigil,” used for frustration or annoyance.
    • Example: “Qiqil mo ako!” (You’re frustrating me!)
  • Pokmaru – Reversed syllables of “marupok” (fragile), referring to someone who falls in love easily.
    • Example: “Pokmaru mo naman!” (You’re so easily smitten!)
  • Tea – Borrowed from “spill the tea,” meaning gossip.
    • Example: “May tea ako sa’yo!” (I have some gossip for you!)
  • G na G – Short for “game na game,” meaning ready for anything.
    • Example: “G na G ako sumama!” (I’m ready to go!)
  • Jowa – Means boyfriend or girlfriend.
    • Example: “May jowa na ako.” (I have a partner now.)

Common Terms of Address & Endearment

  • Bes/Besh/Beks/Beki – Best friend, often used within the LGBTQ+ community.
  • Mare/Mars/Marski – Female friend.
  • Pare/Pars/Pardski – Male friend.
  • Dude, Bro, Sis – Borrowed from English, used among friends.
  • Babe/Beh, Hon/Honey, Labs – Terms of endearment for romantic partners.
  • Nay/Tay – Shortened for “Nanay” (mother) and “Tatay” (father), used playfully.
  • Inday/Dodong – Common regional names used playfully to address someone.
  • Jowa/Syota – Romantic partner.

Describing People & Things (Positive & Negative)

Positive:

  • Astig – Cool, tough, impressive.
  • Swabe – Smooth, effortless.
  • Petmalu – Incredible, amazing.
  • Bongga – Extravagant, stylish.
  • Sosyal – Classy, sophisticated.
  • Level up – Improved, better.
  • Slay – Doing exceptionally well.
  • Solid – Reliable, good quality.

Negative:

  • Chaka – Ugly, unattractive.
  • Jologs/Jeproks – Tacky, out of style.
  • Baduy – Corny, outdated.
  • Basura – Trash, terrible quality.
  • Waley – Boring, not fun.
  • Epal – Attention-seeker.
  • Tanga/Bobo – Stupid, foolish.

Actions & Activities

  • Kain tayo – Let’s eat.
  • Inom tayo – Let’s drink.
  • Tambay – Hanging out.
  • Chika/Tsismis – Gossip.
  • Gora – Let’s go.
  • Keribels/Keri – Can handle it.
  • Bet – Willing to try.
  • Sige – Okay, sure.

Online & Texting Slang

  • OMG, LOL, BRB, TBH, FOMO, YOLO – Borrowed from English internet slang.
  • Sana all – Expresses envy or wishful thinking.
  • GG – Good game.
  • NP – No problem.
  • Edi wow – Sarcastic reaction.
  • Anyare? – What happened?

Reactions & Exclamations

  • Grabe! – Wow! Intense!
  • Talaga? – Really?
  • Jusko! – Oh my God!
  • Hay naku! – Expression of frustration.
  • Ano ba?! – What the heck?!
  • Sayang naman! – What a waste!
  • Nakakaloka! – Shocking!

Evolution of Filipino Slang

Filipino slang evolves through:

  • Reversing syllables (e.g., Lodi from Idol, Werpa from Power).
  • Borrowing from other languages (e.g., Jowa from Spanish “jugar”).
  • Shortening words (e.g., Keri from “carry”).
  • Pop culture influence (e.g., Momshie from TV shows).

Where Is Filipino Slang Used?

  • Casual conversations
  • Social media
  • TV shows and movies
  • Internet memes
  • Workplaces (informally)

Why Learn Filipino Slang?

  • Enhances social interactions
  • Improves language comprehension
  • Keeps you updated

Common Mistakes When Using Filipino Slang

  1. Overusing slang in formal settings
  2. Mispronouncing words
  3. Using outdated slang

Conclusion

Filipino slang is more than just playful language; it reflects the nation’s creativity and cultural evolution. Whether you’re a local looking to stay updated or a foreigner eager to learn, understanding these slang words enhances your ability to communicate effectively. Stay engaged with social media and daily conversations to keep up with the latest slang trends.

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about Filipino slang words for educational and cultural purposes. Slang usage may vary by region, social group, or context. Always use slang appropriately based on the setting and audience.