Filipino Commonly Used Terms When Going to the Market
Most Filipinos will have a basic understanding of English and will try to converse with you if they can. Most are friendly enough to make conversation but some may be too shy to carry on a full conversation in English especially if they are not well-versed, considering some Filipinos selling in markets.
Markets usually showcase a variety of products and goods that are locally produced. It is also a place to grasp a glimpse of how locals live their everyday lives. What can be found in the markets greatly depends on the islands and the season you are traveling to. We guide you to common words and phrases that Filipinos in general use when going to markets. Here are some of them:
1.) “Ano po ito?”
Translating to: “What is this?”, this phrase is usually used in asking the seller what he/she is selling or offering.
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2.) “Magkano po ito?”
Translating to: “How much is this?”, this phrase is usually used in asking or clarifying the price of the product or goods being sold.
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3.) “Ang mahal naman!”
Translating to: “This is too expensive”, this phrase is usually used to express that the price of the product or good being sold is too pricey.
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4.) “Wala na po bang tawad?”
Translating to: “May I ask for a bargain? / Please lower the price.“, this phrase is usually used to ask the seller if he/she can lower the price of the product or goods he/she is offering or selling.
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5.) “Sa inyo na lang po ang sukli.”
Translating to: “Keep the change”, this phrase expresses that you want the seller to keep the change for the product or good you bought.
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6.) “SUKI”
It is defined as a frequent or loyal customer; someone who continuously buys products or goods from a particular vendor or seller.
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7.) “PABILI PO.”
Translating to: “Can I buy this?”, this phrase expresses the desire of wanting to buy or purchase something from a seller of a particular product or good.
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In addition, Here are some commonly used terms in foods:
Bread – Tinapay
Beverage – Inumin
Coffee – Kape
Tea – Tsaa
Water – Tubig
Salt – Asin
Pepper – Paminta
Meat – Karne
Pork – Baboy
Beef – Baka
Fish – Isda
Chicken – Manok
Vegetable – Gulay
Fruits – Prutas
Potato – Patatas
Are there any more commonly used words and phrases that you think is often used in the Philippine market? Share it with us below!
Written By: Patricia Antoinette M. Nacianceno
Image Source: SUNSTAR, JUAN FRANCISCO CARO, PHILSTAR, AM-INSIDER, SIMPLE GOOD AND TASTY; Video: Youtube
Source: Tagaloglang, Philippinecountry, TripAdvisor
