Indeed, all the world’s a stage, and the role we all aspire to play is the one who is loved and is giving love. We cannot contest the idea that it is the greatest feeling in the world. In fact, love allows you to feel several emotions all at once, which makes it a unique roller coaster ride. In today’s article, we will walk you through some of the greatest Tagalog love phrases that can support you as you express romantic declarations in the native language of your special one.
If you want his or her heart to skip a beat, let’s dig into our kilig (Tagalog word for being excited about a romantic experience) list of expressions!
Who wouldn’t want to feel the exhilarating rush of excitement and joy when you finally hear the words “mahal kita” from someone you love?
You see, with the number of people all over the world, it is very much possible that the one you are destined to be with will not hail from the same country where you come from. Maybe he or she will be a few miles out or even on the other side of the globe. But regardless of the distance, love knows no boundaries. And for us language enthusiasts, we do not find it surprising if you want to make an effort to learn a whole new language to impress your special one. And if that person is a Filipino, we got you covered!
Tagalog Love Phrases
When the time comes, and you finally feel ready to profess your feelings, check out our foolproof list of romantic phrases that are guaranteed to sound native for extra “pogi points” (Tagalog version for the humorous phrase “brownie points”).
1. Mahal kita(Common) / Iniibig kita (Poetic)
Translation: I love you
When it comes to saying directly what you feel, nothing beats the usage of these two particular phrases. If you want to be straightforward and you do not want to leave room for misinterpretation, the locals highly recommend using these expressions. Just make sure that your intentions are clear since these phrases carry a lot of weight and shouldn't be thrown around easily. You can say it with your partner, family members, and even with really close friends.
2. Gusto kita
Translation: I like you
There's a huge gap between liking and loving someone. If you are still unsure of how deep your love is or you simply are just beginning to get to know each other better, it would be wise to use this expression than "mahal kita." In this context, the word "gusto" is directly translated as "like" in English. In the same straightforward manner, the word "kita" refers to "you." Isn't it easy to remember? Remember to use this one when you want to casually ask someone out. For instance, you can say "gusto kitang makasama sa araw na ito. Free ka ba?" (Translation: I want to spend time with you today. Are you free?")
3. Gagawin ko ang lahat para sa’yo
Translation: I will do everything for you
If you have ever been head over heels for someone before, then you understand how magical love is. This feeling has the capacity to give you strength to the point that you are willing to do whatever it takes to be with someone you love. According to the locals, this is one of the best expressions that will surely make your partner feel the "kilig."
4. May gusto ako sa’yo
Translation: I have a crush on you
Ever heard of David Archuleta's song entitled "Crush"? In the context of this expression, the word "gusto" refers to the feeling of having a very big crush and adoration for someone. If you are just beginning your relationship with a Filipino, it would be wise to confess your feelings by using this expression. Trust us when we say that you will surely sweep them off their feet with this one!
5. Nandito lang ako para sa’yo
Translation: I am always here for you
Looking for a subtle way to show your feelings to someone? By simply saying that you are on their side and that you've got their backs, you will surely earn a brownie point with the Filipinos. This can be used in casual conversations with your close friends or with your special ones. Fortunately, this is an expression that you can use anytime and can be interpreted as a polite expression to say whenever someone is going over some challenging experiences.
6. Kailangan kita
Translation: I need you
In the Philippines, there's even a movie and a song with the title "kailangan kita." For the locals, hearing this simple expression reminds them of the unique feeling of being loved by someone deeply. After all, this does not just say that you have some deep feelings, but it also states that you want to be with them forever. It's like you cannot breathe, and you don't feel complete without them. Very sweet, right?
7. Ikaw lang ang gusto ko
Translation: It is only you who I like
Have you ever felt like nothing else matters so long as you are with someone you love? Like it doesn't matter if it rains, snows, or whatever catastrophic event happens as long as you spend it all with your partner. If that rings a bell, then you certainly should use this expression to say precisely how you feel in Tagalog.
8. Kulang ako kung wala ka
Translation: I am not complete without you
Love is a tricky thing for most of us. Some are lucky to find their partners at such an early time, while there are some who are not as fortunate as them. Once you find "the one," you should tell them this Tagalog love phrase since it means that you are practically only complete when you are with them. Like a puzzle piece, your partner will complete you.
9. Aaalgaan kita
Translation: I will take care of you
Planning your wedding vows for your Filipino partner? Nothing beats using this expression since it reflects not just your love but your commitment to stand by the person you love no matter what. It also shows that the type of love you are feeling is not a fleeting one and that you'll be there for better or worse.
10. Gusto kong tumanda kasama ka
Translation: I want to grow old with you
It is amazing to see the kind of love that stays the same through the years. If you are fond of "The Notebook" or any other Nicholas Sparks books, then you must use this phrase to express your intention of loving someone eternally. This phrase is so popular that there's a song related to it entitled "Kasama Kang Tumanda" which is usually played during weddings.
11. Mamahalin kita habang buhay
Translation: I will love you forever
Ever heard of Katy Perry's "Unconditionally"? If you share the same sentiment as that song, then now is the best time to use this phrase to explain your intention to be with someone forever. You can also use this for your wedding vows as this is one of the sweetest Tagalog lines ever!
Sweet Tagalog Phrases For Expressing Significance
Cannot seem to find the right descriptive words to show how much your partner means to you? We bet we have the best selection of Tagalog love phrases just for that! Review our shortlist below and make sure you say it to your partner from time to time.
1. Sa’yo lang umiikot ang mundo ko
Translation: My world revolves around you
2. Ikaw ang lahat sa akin
Translation: You are my everything
3. Ikaw lang ang kailangan ko
Translation: You are all I need
4. Ikaw ang dahilan kung bakit ako masaya
Translation: You are the reason why I am happy
5. Binago mo ang buhay ko
Translation: You changed my life
6. Kulang ang buhay ko kung wala ka
Translation: My life is incomplete without you
7. Kulang ang araw ko kung wala ka
Translation: My day is incomplete without you
8. Binago ako ng pagmamahal mo
Translation: Your love changed me
9. Napaka swerte ko sa’yo
Translation: I am very lucky to have you
Tagalog Love Phrases For Long Distance Relationships
Aside from saying “miss na kita”, there is a whole level of Tagalog phrases you need to unlock!
Have you ever heard of the line “appearance blinds, whereas words reveal”? Experts in the field of relationships believe that words are integral for strengthening the bond between partners. In fact, according to Gary Chapman, there are people whose primary love language is words of affirmation. In this case, words can mean a lot to them, which is why you need to memorize this shortlist of easy Tagalog love phrases perfect for your long-distance relationship.
Sweet Tagalog Compliments
In the same way that we cannot fully understand the vast space outside the Earth, love is also something that no man has mastered yet. What works for some, simply has no assurance of working with others. However, if you want to make hearts flutter, one way that you should learn is how to provide sweet compliments. With this said, below are some of the top complements that you can say to your Filipino partner.
Tagalog | English |
Ang ganda mo talaga | You are truly beautiful |
Ang ganda-ganda mo | You are so beautiful |
Walang tatalog sayo | No one can beat you |
Ang pogi mo talaga | You are truly handsome |
Ang pogi mo | You are so handsome |
Wala kang kapantay | No one comes close to you |
Nagiisa ka lang | You are the only one |
Wala kang kasing ganda/gwapo | No one compares to how beautiful/handsome you are |
Ang bait mo | You are kind / You are nice |
Ang tapang mo | You are brave |
Ang cute mo | You are cute |
Napakacute mo talaga | You are so cute |
Blooming ka ngayon | You look fresh today |
Kahanga-hanga ka talaga | You are truly impressive |
Gusto ko ang mga niluluto mo | I love your cooking |
Ang ganda ng mata mo | I love your eyes |
Ang ganda ng ngiti mo | I love your smile |
Maganda ang taste mo | You have good taste |
Ang bango mo | You smell good |
Ang sexy mo | You are sexy |
Kaakit-akit ka | You are attractive |
As we end this article, we hope that our expertise was able to help you in finding the right words to say to your Filipino partner. If you enjoyed this post, feel free to share it on social media and help us spread these sugar-coated lines to your friends. Who knows, you might just find love in the Philippines?
Learning Basic Phrases In The Tagalog Language
The Filipino language is so unique and easy to learn, which makes it one of the leading languages that foreigners enjoy. If you want to establish deeper relationships with your Pinoy (another term for Filipino descent) friends and loved ones, we definitely recommend the Ling App. This powerful resource offers an interactive experience with the target language through its fun quizzes and games. It is available online and can be downloaded to your mobile phones so that you can practice your Tagalog anytime and anywhere you are in the world.
And you know what is exciting about this app? Unlike other language learning programs, the Ling App covers the basic translations as well as the most native ways to say words in your target language. In this sense, it does not only discuss technical stuff, but it also allows you to sound more like a native than a tourist. If that sits well with you, then we encourage you to master Tagalog today by signing up for a free account!
FAQs
How do you express love in Tagalog? ›
What are common Filipino phrases? ›
- Hello (informal) = Musta.
- Hello (formal) = Kumusta.
- What is your name? (informal) = Anong pangalan mo?
- What is your name? (formal) = Ano po ang pangalan nila?
- Nice to meet you = Kinagagalak kong makilala ka.
- Good morning (informal) = Magandang umaga.
How do you say simple phrases in Tagalog? ›
- “Magandang umaga, magandang hapon, magandang gabi” (“Good morning, good afternoon, good evening”) ...
- “Kamusta ka?” (How are you?) ...
- “Salamat” (Thank you) ...
- “Oo, hindi” (Yes, no) ...
- “P'wede po magtanong?” (May I ask a question?) ...
- “Ingat” (Take care) ...
- “Paalam” (Goodbye)
How do you say I love you in the Philippine language? ›
In Filipino, its "Mahal kita". You can also say "Mahal na Mahal kita" which means I love you very much. Pronounce it. "MAHAL" is pronounced as "MA-HAL" were letter "A" is sounded like "APPLE" and "FATHER" while "KITA" is pronounced as "KI-TA" were letter "I" is sounded like "EAT" or "KIT".
What is flirting in Tagalog? ›
The English word "flirting" can be translated as the following words in Tagalog: 1.) kalandián - [noun] flirting more... 5.)
What is mahal ko? ›
Mahal means "love" (or "dear" as in "expensive") ko is "my" So "Mahal Ko" is My love (or sweetheart is probably a good English translation).
What does Hay Nako mean? ›
4. Hay nako! Meaning: Hay niko is “sigh,” but hay naku has no direct translation. Some linguists say it comes from the phrase “Nanay ko po!” which means “Oh my mother!” Usage: Hay nako is best used to express frustration or exasperation in the likes of “Oh my,” “Oh my gosh,” “Oh dear,” or “Uh oh!”.
How do you curse in Tagalog? ›
Putangina / Putangina Mo
This swear word is actually one of the most common swear words that you might come across when you talk to a Filipino or when you find yourself visiting the Philippines. This literally translates to the English curse word which is "son of a b*tch".
What does Po in Filipino mean? ›
Filipinos would add a word before the first name to show respect to anyone older than them. Some very basic and common words for showing respect are po and opo. They both basically mean “yes” in a respectful way but used differently in sentences.
What is your name in Filipino? ›
Tagalog translation: Anong pangalan mo? English term or phrase: what is your name? Tagalog translation:Anong pangalan mo?
How dare you Tagalog meaning? ›
The English word "how dare you" can be translated as the following word in Tagalog: 1.) Hayup ka! - [interjection] How dare you!
How do you respond to Mabuhay? ›
When you want to say “Welcome, we wish you the best”: Just smile up a smile as you say, Oh, oh, Mabuhay! The root word of mabuhay is buhay, which literally means “life” or “alive.” When you use the formal greeting, Mabuhay!, you're basically saying, “Live!” or “Long Live!”
How do you make a Filipina fall in love with you? ›
- Approachability and open-mindedness.
- Respectfulness.
- Flexibility.
- Faithfulness.
- Being family-oriented.
- Honorability.
- Good communications skills.
- Being true to yourself.
How do you say love in Filipino? ›
3 Ways to Say I Love You in Filipino - YouTube
How do you respond to Mahal Kita? ›
...
How Would You Respond If Someone Says I Love You?
Example Situation | Response |
---|---|
If someone says I love you to you | “Mahal din kita” Translation: “I love you too” |
If someone says I love you to you in a poetic way | “Iniibig din kita/ iniirog din kita” Translation: “I love you too” |
What is Simp Tagalog? ›
Definitions and Meaning of Simp in Tagalog
a silly or foolish person.
How do you flirt on chat? ›
Flirting Dos. Start the conversation casually. As in the real world, the first step to flirting is to get over your cold feet and jump right in! Text the other person a brief message asking them about their day, asking them a specific question about work or school, or simply saying "Hi!".
What is Manligaw? ›
Definition for the Tagalog word manligaw:
manligaw. [verb] to date; to court; to woo.
What is Giliw? ›
love; affection synonyms ▲ Synonyms: pag-ibig, pagmamahal, paguyo. darling; sweetheart; person much loved synonyms ▲ Synonyms: mahal, kasuyo, sinta, mutya, liyag, kasi, kasintahan.
What does bebe ko mean? ›
In Taglish slang, a mix of Tagalog and English spoken especially by younger people in the Philippines and Filipino diaspora, the word bebe is based on and used to mean baby. Bebe appears in the expression bebe ko (“my baby”) and pabebe (“to act cute or childish”).
What is ko in Tagalog? ›
'ko is an alternate spelling of the Tagalog word akó. Alternate spellings may include abbreviations, informal spellings, slang, and/or commonly misspelled variations of a word. Base word: akó [ang pronoun] I; me; (first person pronoun); self.
What does Dai mean in Tagalog? ›
(noun) dried fish.
What does Bahala na si Batman mean? ›
“Bahala Na Si Batman!” It's a phrase whose beginnings can be traced to the Filipino's come-what-may attitude, and is analogous to that old Doris Day ditty, Que Sera Sera. “Bahala na si” translates as “leave it to,” suggesting that the speaker is giving up control of his or her fate to a higher power.
Why do Filipinos say Hala? ›
“Hala” is another great phrase that can mean “go ahead,” “watch out,” or “if you do that, there'll be consequences,” all at once. Spouses of Catholic Filipinos might even break out “sus-mary-osep” which are Jesus, Mary and Joseph's names combined.
What is the meaning of ULOL? ›
Adjective. ulol. (colloquial, offensive, vulgar) crazy, foolish, mad.
Is Gago a curse? ›
1. Gago. If someone refers to you as this curse, it means that you've done something foolish or simply another term for 'fool'. However, before its meaning evolved to that, the word referred to someone who is a nervous wreck.
What does Punta mean in Filipino? ›
[noun] destination; direction; coming; going.
What does Tay mean in Tagalog? ›
tatay. [noun] dad; father; mister.
What is mano in Filipino? ›
Mano. The common gesture used to greet is known as 'mano', often referred to as 'bless' in English. Mano is performed as a sign of respect towards elders and as a way of accepting a blessing from the elder. It is usually done towards those who are older by two generations or more.
How do you respond to Salamat? ›
“Salamat! / Salamat po!” This means “thank you” in Tagalog / Filipino. Whenever you receive something, it is what you say. And, if someone gives you thanks, you reply with “Walang anuman,” the Filipino equivalent of “You're welcome.”
What is the meaning of pangalan in English? ›
translations pangngalan
en A word that can be used to refer to a person, place, thing, quality, or idea; a part of speech.
What is last name in Tagalog? ›
The best Filipino / Tagalog translation for the English word last name. The English word "last name" can be translated as the following word in Tagalog: 1.) apelyido - [noun] surname; last name; family name more...
Can you please in Tagalog? ›
The English word "can i have some please?" can be translated as the following word in Tagalog: 1.) pahingî - [expression] May I have; Please give me; Please let me have; Please give me one!; May I have one/some, please?; Hand it over more...
How do you say Filipino words? ›
90 Filipino Words You'll Hear in Conversations! - YouTube
Can I dare you meaning? ›
It means to challenge someone to do something you believe they would not do because they are afraid or would be embarrassed; or perhaps because they see the task as beneath them morally, religiously, maturity, etc. "I dare you" is a phrase we used in our childhood.
How dare you talk to me like that meaning? ›
Talking to someone "like that" usually means speaking: rudely. very directly. angrily.
What does Mabuhay ka mean? ›
Mabuhay is a Filipino greeting, usually expressed as Mabuhay!, which literally means "long live". The term is also occasionally used for toasts during celebrations to mean "cheers". It is similar to the Hawaiian expression "aloha".
How do you answer Kamusta ka? ›
Learn Tagalog: Responding To Kumusta Ka? - YouTube
What is Tita in Filipino? ›
Screengrab from Momzillas movie trailer | © Star Cinema. Before, the definition of a 'tita' simply referred to one's aunt – either on one's mother's or father's side of the family. In the Philippine context, the definition was also extended to include female friends, co-workers, or colleagues of one's parents.
How do you know when a Filipina is lying? ›
Thai Or Filipina Girlfriend is She Lying to You? 19 Clues - YouTube
How can I impress my Filipina? ›
- Be respectful. This is just a pretty basic thing to keep in mind. ...
- Make her laugh. Women love a man with a good sense of humor. ...
- Feed her. ...
- Know her culture. ...
- Never disrespect her culture. ...
- Be straightforward. ...
- Get to know her family. ...
- Get her gifts.
What makes a Filipina happy? ›
Of the hundreds of responses generated, the sources of happiness of the Filipinos continue to be generally equated with 5Fs: family, friends, food, fun and faith.
How do you call your boyfriend in Tagalog? ›
Nobya or kasintahan are both used to mean, girlfriend, fiancee or sweetheart. Nobyo means boyfriend. syota is a Tagalog slang for sweetheart, girlfriend or boyfriend.
How do you say wow in Filipino? ›
The English word "wow" can be translated as the following words in Tagalog: 1.) grabe - [adjective] serious; grave; weighty; [interjection] Wow!; Oh my! Too much!
What is your love Bicol? ›
: "Mahal Kita" ("I Love You") in the Bicol language.
What does 5254 mean in love? ›
#Werbung “14344 5254” MEANS… I LOVE YOU VERY MUCH. MAHAL NA MAHAL KITA.
What is mahal ko kayo in English? ›
TAEKOOK SAYING "MAHAL KO KAYO" which means "I. LOVE YOU ALL" in english.
How do you say love without saying it? ›
- “Smiling so much today just thinking of you”
- “Just wanted to thank you for being you :)”
- “I hope you know how much you mean to me”
- “I'm so glad you're in my life!”
- “You are so amazing!”
- “You mean so much to me”
- Send a sweet GIF.
- Send a romantic song.