Whether you’re reconnecting with your roots or diving into the culture for the first time, sprinkling these expressions into your conversations will add some flair. Here’s a fun rundown of 24 trendy Filipino slang terms you should know in 2024. Let’s dive in!
1. Boogsh
A modern take on "bongga," this term describes something extravagant or over-the-top, perfect for those fabulous moments!
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Example: "Ang boogsh ng party ni Maria, ang daming ilaw!"
(Maria's party is so extravagant, there are so many lights!)
2. Estetik
Used to describe someone or something as attractive or beautiful. It’s a compliment that captures the essence of aesthetic appeal!
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Example: "Ang ganda ng outfit mo, sobrang estetik!"
(Your outfit is beautiful, it’s so aesthetic!)
3. Dogshow
This term refers to making jokes or poking fun at someone or something. It’s a light-hearted way to engage in playful banter!
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Example: "Huwag masyadong dogshow, baka magalit siya!"
(Don’t joke around too much, she might get mad!)
4. Dasurv
A Filipinized version of "deserve," this term recognizes when someone deserves praise, recognition, or good fortune.
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Example: "Sobra siyang nagtrabaho, dasurv niya ang award na 'to!"
(She worked so hard, she deserves this award!)
5. Lavarn
Derived from the Filipino word "laban," this expression is used to cheer up or encourage someone. It’s a supportive way to lift spirits!
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Example: "Kaya mo 'yan! Lavarn lang!"
(You can do it! Just keep fighting!)
6. Omsim
The reverse of the Filipino word "mismo," meaning "correct" or "exactly." It’s a fun way to affirm someone’s statement!
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Example: "Tama ka diyan, omisim!"
(You’re right about that, exactly!)
7. Awit
A combination of "aw" and "sakit," this term means "aww, it hurts," often used to express sympathy or understanding.
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Example: "Nakita mo yung nangyari sa kanya? Awit, ang sakit!"
(Did you see what happened to her? Aww, that hurts!)
8. Sana All
This playful phrase means "I hope everyone feels this way." It’s often used to express a mix of envy and admiration—perfect for when you see a friend thriving in love or life!
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Example: "May boyfriend na siya, sana all!"
(She has a boyfriend now, I hope everyone is like that!)
9. Gigil mo ko
It typically means "you're making me feel overwhelmed with cuteness" or "you're making me excited." However, in some contexts, it can also imply a strong reaction that might lean toward annoyance or frustration—like when someone is so irritating that it makes you want to pinch them. So, while it’s mostly positive, it can have that playful edge where it hints at being a bit annoyed too!
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Example: "Ang dami mong tanong, gigil mo ko!"
(You have too many questions, you’re making me feel overwhelmed!)
10. Budol
This term refers to someone who tricks or convinces others to buy something they may not need. It’s often used in a playful way when friends pressure each other to spend money.
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Example: "Huwag kang magpa-budol, kailangan mo bang bilhin 'yan?"
(Don’t let yourself be tricked, do you really need to buy that?)
11. Chillax
A mashup of "chill" and "relax," this term encourages you to take it easy and soak up the laid-back vibes. It’s like saying, “Hey, let’s just enjoy life!”
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Example: "Wag ka masyadong mag-alala, chillax ka lang!"
(Don’t worry too much, just relax!)
12. Lodi
This fun term is "idol" spelled backward! Use it to refer to someone you admire—whether it’s a celebrity, a friend, or even yourself!
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Example: "Sobrang galing mo! Lodi ka talaga!"
(You’re so good! You’re really an idol!)
13. Petmalu
Need a way to describe something super cool? "Petmalu" fits the bill! It’s a fun way to express how impressive something is.
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Example: "Petmalu yung bagong gadget na binili ko!"
(The new gadget I bought is super cool!)
14. Beshie
A term of endearment for your best buddy. If you’ve got a close friend, you’ve got a “beshie” to share all your adventures with!
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Example: "Beshie, tara na at magshopping tayo!"
(Bestie, let’s go shopping!)
15. Jowa
Casual slang for "boyfriend" or "girlfriend." It’s the go-to term when chatting about your significant other.
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Example: "May date ako mamaya kasama ang jowa ko!"
(I have a date later with my boyfriend/girlfriend!)
16. Walang Forever
Meaning "there's no forever," this phrase reflects a humorous, somewhat cynical view on love. It’s a fun way to laugh off relationship woes!
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Example: "Nagsimula na naman ang drama, walang forever!"
(The drama has started again, there's no forever!)
17. Hala
A versatile expression that can signal surprise, worry, or concern. Think of it as your go-to reaction for unexpected moments!
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Example: "Hala, na-late na ako sa klase!"
(Oh no, I’m late for class!)
18. Kilig
That fluttery feeling when you see someone cute or experience something romantic. If you’ve ever had butterflies in your stomach, you’ve felt “kilig”!
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Example: "Nakita ko siya sa mall, ang kilig!"
(I saw him/her at the mall, it was so exciting!)
19. Pusuan Mo
The heart emoji serves as a way to show appreciation for a post. The slang term "pusuan mo" literally translates to "put a heart on it," with "pusuan" derived from "puso," which means heart.
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Example: "Pusuan mo naman yung bago kong post."
(Please send a heart reaction to my latest post.)
20. AFAM
Short for "A Foreigner Assigned in Manila," this term often refers to attractive foreigners living or working in the Philippines.
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Example: "Ang cute ng afam na nakita ko sa mall!"
(The foreign guy I saw at the mall is so cute!)
21. Karaoke King/Queen
In karaoke-loving culture, this term refers to someone who’s a star (or a funny disaster) on the mic. Ready to belt out those tunes?
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Example: "Siyempre, siya ang karaoke queen ng grupo!"
(Of course, she’s the karaoke queen of the group!)
22. As a Friend
This phrase is often used to clarify that a compliment or comment is made in a friendly context, especially when discussing feelings or relationships.
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Example: "Sinasabi ko lang ito as a friend, pero bagay kayo!"
(I’m just saying this as a friend, but you two are a good match!)
23. Sunkist
Used to describe a sun-kissed glow, this term highlights that healthy, radiant look. Perfect for those sunny days!
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Example: "Ang ganda ng sunkist mo, fresh na fresh!"
(You look great with that sun-kissed glow, so fresh!)
24. Bet
This term means you’re totally down for something or agree with a suggestion. It’s a fun way to express enthusiasm!
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Example: "Gusto mo bang magmovie? Bet!"
(Do you want to watch a movie? I’m totally down!)