7+ Easy Tagalog Swear Words You Should Know!

Tagalog swear words - A photo of a girl with arms open looking surprised

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, Tagalog has many words and phrases that may be used to express their emotions. 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!

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.

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, 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 their facial expression! It will surely help you out in figuring out what they actually mean besides the swear words that they’ve said.

Tagalog swear words cheat sheet - A photo of an emotional man in front of a laptop

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 your lolo (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!)
Tagalog swear words - A photo of a girl shouting at her friend

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. 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 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!)

More Filipino Swear Words

For those who want more Filipino swear words, here’s a table of additional terms. Use them wisely!

EnglishTagalog
Judas (Traitor)Hudas
LightningLintik
Foolish/StupidTarantado
Nuisance/Bad luckBuwisit
Male OrganBurat
Jerk/ObnoxiousKupal
AnnoyingLeche
StupidUngas
Damn it/RegretPunyeta
Inhumane/BeastlyHinayupak
Surprise/RegretPucha
Trouble-makerPesteng yawa
F*ck and Sh*t (FuckShit)Pakshet

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 they also value respect 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.

Want To Learn More Tagalog?

After learning all of these, what’s next? If you are up for the challenge, you might want to learn more Tagalog through the Ling app!

The Ling app offers a diverse set of languages that are fit for you. Through bite-sized and gamified activities and lessons, learning is not just enjoyable but is also very effective. If you want to step up your language skills and achieve your language goals, the Ling app is the perfect language-learning platform for you.

With an easy-to-navigate-and-convenient interface, you can bring the Ling app anywhere you go and learn a new second language with ease. Whether it is to learn about Tagalog or any of the 60+ other languages offered, you can learn it on the go.

With the Ling app, you will have access to fun lessons and open a new world of language learning that you’ve never experienced before! With language learning made easy and fun, the Ling app is definitely the way to go. Check out the Ling app on the Play Store or App Store and learn more languages today!

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