Difficulty Level: Maralita (Absolute Beginner)

“How are you?” is the cornerstone of every human conversation. Isn’t a good conversation after all about discovering something about the person you’re talking with.

Native Tagalog Speakers: Jet & Dash

Transcript and Notes:

Section I – Kamusta?

Kamusta? – How are you?

Kamusta ka? – How are you? – (used to address one person.)

Kamusta ka na?  – How are you (already)?
The word “na” is used as “already,” as in “How is your situation already?” or “since the last time?”)

Kamusta po? – Adding the word “po” is indicates politeness. The explanation of how to properly use the word “po” can be found in one of the opening chapters the free book (no email required to download) Your First 100 Tagalog Sentences.

Kamusta po kayo? – How are you? (polite, can address one or many persons)
This is the polite form which can be used to address one or many people. Don’t be confused by the word “kayo.” In the polite form of the Tagalog, native speakers often change “ka” to “kayo” to sound less direct and more polite.

Kamusta na po kayo? – How are you (already)?
Just like “Kamusta ka na?” the word “na” connotes that you have previous knowledge of his condition.

Section II – I’m Fine

Mabuti. – I’m fine.
Okay lang. – I’m okay.
Hindi mabuti. – Not good.
Masama ang pakiramdam ko. – I feel bad.

Mabuti po. – I’m fine. (polite)
Okay lang po. – I’m okay. (polite)
Hindi mabuti po. – Not good. (polite)
Masama ang pakiramdam ko po. – I feel bad. (polite)

Section III – Other Responses

Ikaw? – And you?
Kayo po? – And you? (polite)

Oo. – Yes.
Hindi. – No

Opo. – Yes. (polite)
Hindi po. – No. (polite)

Salamat. – Thank you.
Salamat po. – Thank you. (polite)