3 Best Ways to Say Yes in Tagalog Language

Yes. Yassss. Yup! But how exactly can you say yes in Tagalog language?

In this special article, we will take you by the hand and walk you through how you can express affirmatives like a pro-Tagalog speaker in three easy ways. Prepare to awaken the Filipino in you as we also try to put the words in different scenarios and distinguish whether it follows a formal or casual pattern. If you are ready for that, then off we go!

Let us be clear about one thing: It is almost impossible for someone not to say the word “yes” regardless of where you are in the world. For instance, if you are thinking of dining in any Filipino fast-food chain or restaurants, you might experience service crews offering you extra rice by saying, “ma’am/sir, rice?” If you are struggling to find the best Tagalog response, then let our list of vocabulary words below help you find the right words as you say a resounding “yes!”

Similar to the English language, the word yes can be interpreted in a variety of ways depending on the tone, word choice, and context of the speakers. For the case of Tagalog language, we have identified three major contexts: casual, formal, and casual-polite.

*Note: You may also add a quick smile (“ngiti” in Tagalog) or nod (“tango” in Tagalog) as you say any of the affirmative responses above.

Sample scenarios

Now let us say your Filipino boss suddenly comes to you for a quick chat. A typical conversation between a person with authority and an employee may be structured in the format below.

Based on the scenario above, we can say that the exchange between the speakers is in a formal setting. We arrived at this conclusion because of the following signifiers: (1) Person 2 consistently adds the word “po” to show respect, (2) Person 2 also chose to use the formal version of yes in Tagalog language.

Based on the scenario above, we can say that the exchange between the speakers is in a casual setting. We arrived at this conclusion because of the following signifiers: (1) Both of the speakers did not add the word “po”, (2) Person 2 also chose to use the informal version of yes in Tagalog language in the form of “oo”, (3) Person 2 also utilized the casual form of bidding farewell in Tagalog.

Related terms

Of course, there is a fat chance that you also need to express a resounding “no” and “maybe” depending on the situation. In this part, let me also share with you how to say and use other vocabulary terms related to our article today.

To sound more polite when conversing with your bosses or older people, you can add the word “po” after any the Tagalog words above. For example, you can say “hindi po ako galit” or “I am not mad at you.” In this sense, it is always handy that you know when to add the magic word “po”

Even at present, Filipinos usually add this word to sound cute even if they are simply speaking with people of the same age. So, do not be surprised if someone will add “po” when talking to you.

Remember that in the Filipino culture, how you choose your words can significantly affect how the natives will respond and act around you. As a general word of advice, always use a neutral and gentle tone informal settings to avoid confusion and appearing arrogant.

Learning basic phrases in the Tagalog language

If you loved this content on how to say a simple yes in Tagalog language, then you will certainly adore learning with Master Ling through the Ling App. The Ling App is an exceptional language companion for enthusiasts and tourists who are challenging themselves to learn the various languages. In order to establish a more meaningful connection with the Filipino natives, using a dedicated app for learning Tagalog proves to be one of the best methods in learning basic vocabulary words and sentence structures.

With your newfound vocabulary in expressing yes in Tagalog, you are one step closer to achieving full Tagalog fluency! Remember that the key to learning a language is time, continuous practice, and consistency. With that being said, if you want to further master the language and make meaningful connections with the Filipino people, be sure to check out the Ling App. The Ling App features fun mini-games and quizzes that can motivate you to practice and learn more about the language day by day.