Translation guide
This guide covers how to refer to the Filipino language, people, and nationality in Japanese, as well as related cultural terms.
Referring to the national language of the Philippines.
The standard term for the Filipino language. Uses the borrowed word 'Filipino' plus 語 (language).
フィリピノ語を勉強しています。
I'm studying Filipino.
Often used interchangeably with Filipino, though technically Tagalog is the base language. Common in everyday conversation.
タガログ語が話せますか？
Can you speak Tagalog?
Referring to a person from the Philippines or the people collectively.
Standard term for a Filipino person. Add たち for plural (people).
彼はフィリピン人です。
He is Filipino.
フィリピン人の友達がいます。
I have a Filipino friend.
Describing something as Filipino (adjective).
Use フィリピン (Philippines) + の to mean 'Filipino' as an adjective for things, culture, etc.
フィリピンの料理が好きです。
I like Filipino food.
フィリピンの文化に興味があります。
I'm interested in Filipino culture.
Referring to the country itself, often needed when talking about Filipino things.
The Japanese name for the Philippines. Often used in compounds.
フィリピンに行ったことがありますか？
Have you been to the Philippines?
Unlike English, Japanese uses different suffixes to distinguish language (語), person (人), and adjective (の). Be careful not to mix them up.