Basic Questions

Welcome to this Tagalog lesson about asking and answering questions! Today, you'll learn how to use essential question words to get information, start conversations, and navigate real-life situations.

Essential Question Words

Tagalog has a set of simple question words you’ll use all the time. Let’s learn the most important ones!

• Ano - What
• Sino - Who
• Saan - Where
• Kailan - When
• Bakit - Why
• Ilan - How many
• Magkano - How much

Usage Patterns

• Most question words come at the start of the sentence.
• "Ano" is used for things, "Sino" for people, "Saan" for places.
• "Magkano" is used for prices and costs.

Key Question Phrases

Here are some practical phrases you’ll use every day:

• Ano ang pangalan mo? - What is your name?
• Saan ka nakatira? - Where do you live?
• Magkano ito? - How much is this?

Try saying these out loud for practice!

More Useful Questions

• Sino siya? - Who is he/she?
• Kailan ang meeting? - When is the meeting?
• Bakit ka malungkot? - Why are you sad?
• Ilan ang estudyante? - How many students?

Dialogue Practice

Everyday Questions

A practical conversation using basic questions:

Practice Time!

Let’s put your new skills to use! Try these exercises:

1. Ask someone’s name using "Ano ang pangalan mo?"
2. Find out where a friend lives: "Saan ka nakatira?"
3. Point to an item and ask "Magkano ito?"
4. Ask "Ilan ang [object]?" for counting things around you.
5. Try making your own question using "Bakit" or "Kailan".

Great job! The more you practice, the easier it gets.

Cultural Tips

1. Politeness matters - Add "po" for extra respect: "Ano po ang pangalan ninyo?"
2. Asking prices - It’s common to ask "Magkano po ito?" in markets and stores.
3. Direct questions - Filipinos appreciate friendly tone and a smile when asking questions.
4. Counting and numbers - "Ilan" is used for counting, but for prices, always use "Magkano".

Quiz

Wrap-Up

Fantastic work! You’ve learned how to ask and answer basic questions in Tagalog. Now you can start conversations, get information, and connect with others. Keep practicing these question words and phrases in real situations!