Many language learners are often curious about swear words in a new language. It’s one of the fastest ways to sound like a native! In particular, Filipinos use many words and phrases to express their emotions in Tagalog. So, Tagalog swear words are a must-know vocabulary for anyone who wants to become fluent in this language.
If you are looking for a cheat sheet in order to know more about swear words in Tagalog, then you have come to the right place. Here, you will learn about the meaning of these Filipino swear words and how to use them when you need to. If this interests you, read on!
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7 Most Common Tagalog Swear Words: Your Ultimate Cheat Sheet
Tagalog swear words are by far the best set of swear terms you will ever encounter. Several of them have influences from the Spanish due to historical colonization centuries ago. This has also led to changes in the Philippines’ culture, language, religion in the Philippines, and basically almost everything.
When you encounter a Filipino saying these swear words, it does not necessarily mean they’re angry at you. In Filipino culture, these swear words are used to express, and it is somehow normalized in the country to use them as a form of expression. And take note, they can mean different meanings.
Pay attention to the situation you are in and the Filipino’s facial expression! It will surely help you out in figuring out what they actually mean besides the swear words that they’ve said.
1. Putang Ina / Putang Ina Mo (Son Of A B*tch / You Son Of A B*tch)
“Putang Ina” is one of the most frequently used swear words you might encounter when conversing with a Filipino or during a visit to the Philippines.
While its direct translation is“whore mother,”it’s often equated to the English expletive“son of a b*tch.”While typically a curse, it’s versatile enough to convey frustration and joy.
Examples:
- “Putangina, ang saya ko!” (Son of a b*tch, I am so happy!)
- “Galit ako sa’yo, putangina mo!” (I am mad at you, you son of a b*tch!)
2. Ulol (Fool / Crazy)
Popular among teenagers in the Philippines, this word primarily refers to“fool”or“crazy.”When you are annoyed at somebody or want to express displeasure, you can use the word“ulol”.
In friend groups in the Philippines, it is common to sometimes call your friends with this word. Or if you’re teasing them or find them doing something that you feel is funny.
Examples:
- “Ulol ka ba?” (Are you a fool/crazy?)
- “Anong pinagsasabi mo jan, ulol ka?” (What are you talking about, you fool?)
3. Gago (Stupid)
Like the word “ulol,”“gago”directly translates to“stupid”. The way this word is used is also the same as others. You can use this in a joking manner or when you’re cursing someone.
It’s advised to be cautious when using these words, especially when you’re talking to yourlolo(grandfather),Lola(grandmother), or the elderly, because you might get an earful when you do!
Examples:
- “Huy, gago!” (Hey, fool!)
- “Putang ina, gago ka ba?”( Son of a b*tch, are you a fool?)
4. Pakyu (F*ck You)
There’s a high chance that you might know the meaning of this because this is the Filipino version of the curse word“F*ck you.”“Pakyu”is essentially the Filipino spin on the English expletive “F*ck you,” crafted phonetically to fit the local tongue while retaining its global essence.
If you feel frustration or anger when you’re talking to someone, but you don’t want to be obvious that you feel that way, this might be the perfect word to express it.
Examples:
- “Talaga? Pakyu!” (Really? F*ck you!)
- “Pakyu! Sana hindi ka makatulog ngayong gabi!” (F*ck you! I hope you can’t sleep tonight!)
5. Hayop Ka (You’re An Animal)
This Filipino profanity literally translates to“You are an animal.”While it can sometimes carry the emotional intensity of “Son of a b*tch,” it’s more directly about likening someone’s behavior to an unpredictable or wild animal.
You can hear this often when people are in heated arguments, especially when emotions flare up. It’s not uncommon to hear it during disputes, regardless of age.
Examples:
- “Hayop ka! Bakit mo sinabi ‘yon?” (You animal! Why did you say that?)
- “Alam mo, hayop ka” (You know, you’re an animal)
6. Sira Ulo Ka/Mo (You’re Crazy)
This literally means“broken head/brain.”But in English, this typically means“you’re crazy.”Oftentimes, it is used to joke around with friends.
You can say this whenever your friend is acting funny and you have a close-knit relationship with a Filipino. Or if you are fighting with someone and believe what they’re saying is a lie or is entirely foolish.
Examples:
- “Sira ulo ka ba?” (Are you crazy?)
- “Hoy! Sira ulo ka, putang ina mo!” (Hey! You’re crazy, you son of a b*tch!)
7. Walang Hiya (Shameless)
If you are a fan of Filipino movies or dramas, then this phrase is no stranger to you. Used when someone seems to disregard boundaries or show a lack of respect, it translates to“You are shameless”or“without shame.”
If you feel like someone is actually doing offensive things towards you without care, this is the perfect word for you.
Examples:
- “Gago! Walang hiya ka!” (Stupid! You have no shame!)
- “Lumayas ka dito, walang hiya ka!” (You’re shameless, leave!)
How Do You Say Swear In Tagalog?
The Tagalog word for swear is mura. In this form, mura is a noun.
Don’t get confused for the same Tagalog spelling of mura, a Tagalog adjective that means cheap. If you need to know the pronunciation difference, you can check the context of the Tagalog sentence.
More Filipino Swear Words To Memorize
For those who want more Filipino swear words, here’s a table of additional terms. Use them wisely!
English | Tagalog |
---|---|
Judas (Traitor) | Hudas |
Lightning | Lintik |
Foolish/Stupid | Tarantado |
Nuisance/Bad luck | Buwisit |
Male Organ | Burat |
Jerk/Obnoxious | Kupal |
Annoying | Leche |
Stupid | Ungas |
Damn it/Regret | Punyeta |
Inhumane/Beastly | Hinayupak |
Surprise/Regret | Pucha |
Trouble-maker | Pesteng yawa |
F*ck and Sh*t (FuckShit) | Pakshet |
Frequently Asked Questions About Tagalog Swear Words
Is Kupal A Bad Word?
Yes, if you are using any word in an insulting way, it can mean a bad word for Filipinos.
Kupal, on the other hand, refers to the body part smegma, which is a buildup of dead skin cells mostly seen in the private parts of both men and women. It is used as a derogatory word for people who are annoying, obnoxious, pr*cks. It can also be meant for people who are too proud or elitist.
What Does Hay Nako Po Mean?
Hay nako is not a cuss word in Tagalog but more of an expression that Filipinos use when they are disappointed. It is also a contraction of the word “my mother!” which in Tagalog is “Ina ko po/Nanay ko po”. Similar Tagalog words for hay nako po is naku po or nako po.
Filipinos might use po in this phrase, but it doesn’t imply that it’s a more formal or polite way of saying hay nako. It can often mean oh well or oh my gosh in English.
What Are The Old Curse Words In The Philippines?
The famous old/pre-colonial/pre-hispanic curse words are:
- Buwaka ng
- Himbuwa/buwa
- Hayop
- Lintik
- Hitad
- Tumbong (now only used to refer to the butt)
Some of these words are already listed previously. Old Filipino vulgarities are a lot more diverse and are not only Tagalog. You can find Visayan, Illongo, Pampangueno, and other languages and dialects in the Philippines.
Why Learn Swear Words In The Tagalog Language?
Undoubtedly, learning about the complexities of this Asian language or even simple Tagalog phrases is very fun. Not only because knowing a thing or two about Tagalog is something a Filipino can appreciate but because of the multiple meanings behind every word.
The Tagalog language, especially the swear words, is very expressive too! Like all other languages, you can use these words to express anger, annoyance, or happiness.
There are various contexts in which you can use these Tagalog bad words. This makes it very entertaining to some but fun to many.
Use These Tagalog Swear Words With Discretion!
What we have discussed are just some of the Tagalog swear words and profanities that you can use when you feel like doing so. May it be out of frustration, excitement, or you find someone annoying, this list should be of help!
Even if that is the case, these swear words should be used only when necessary or if you are talking to someone you are very close with or people you know won’t get mad at you if you swear.
The culture of Filipinos might display the traits of being hospitable and welcoming. But Filipinos also value respect and politeness above all things, especially with the elderly. It’s a balance of warmth and reverence.
Using these swear words carelessly might cause you trouble or, worse, might put you in a fight! Always be mindful of the context and the people you’re speaking to.