15 Vibrant Filipino Slang Words and Phrases to Know
Uncover the meaning, origins, and modern use of Filipino slang words that shape everyday conversations and national identity.
Filipino slang, known locally as “salita ng kalye,” is a powerful reflection of the culture, humor, and identity of the Philippines. Every region, generation, and social group adds new flavors to daily speech, making Filipino conversations lively and distinctly expressive. Whether you are visiting the Philippines, connecting with Filipino friends, or just curious about this rich linguistic tradition, these 15 popular slang words and phrases offer a window into the country’s dynamic popular culture.
Table of Contents
- Hoy
- Kilig
- Petmalu
- Werpa
- Lodi
- Chibog
- Jeproks
- Jowa
- Bes/Beshi/Beshie
- Charot
- Awit
- Walwal
- Praning
- Susmaryosep
- Bahala Na
1. Hoy
Meaning: “Hey!” or “Oi!”. This is a casual interjection used to grab someone’s attention, often a friend or someone familiar. Unlike English, “Hoy” carries no negative connotation and can sound both affectionate and alerting, depending on the tone.
Common Usage: To call out to someone across the street or to playfully scold a friend who isn’t paying attention.
Example: “Hoy, where are you going?”
2. Kilig
Meaning: The tingling feeling of excitement and butterflies in your stomach, often triggered by something romantically thrilling or sweet.
- Used when someone sees their crush, witnesses a romantic gesture, or experiences a giddy moment.
- There is no direct English translation, making it uniquely Filipino.
Example: “That love confession gave me so much kilig!”
3. Petmalu
Meaning: An inverted version (“reversed syllable”) of “malupet,” which is slang for “awesome,” “cool,” or “amazing.”
- Used to compliment someone or something outstanding.
- Popular among younger Filipinos and thrives in social media.
Example: “That basketball move was petmalu!”
4. Werpa
Meaning: A playful reversal of the word “power.” It conveys energy, support, or encouragement.
- Typically said to motivate or express solidarity.
Example: “Exam tomorrow? You can do it! Werpa!“
5. Lodi
Meaning: The word “idol” spelled backward. It refers to someone you admire or look up to.
- Used among friends for both serious and playful admiration.
Example: “She won the singing contest—she’s my lodi.”
6. Chibog
Meaning: Slang for “food” or the act of eating. Derived from the Filipino-Chinese community and now widely used across the country.
- Both a noun and a verb (to eat).
Example: “Let’s go chibog!”
7. Jeproks
Meaning: Originally referred to Filipinos from affluent districts, especially those with relaxed, carefree attitudes (from “Project,” as in government housing areas called “Projects”). Now it can mean someone with a laid-back, easygoing lifestyle.
- Often used to describe young people who speak in a cool, casual manner.
Example: “He listens to old rock bands and wears vintage—he’s a true jeproks.”
8. Jowa
Meaning: Colloquial for “boyfriend” or “girlfriend.” The origin is debated—some say it is a playful transformation of “asawa” (spouse), while others link it to “jawa” in local dialects.
- Used regardless of gender; simply means one’s romantic partner.
Example: “Are you coming with your jowa?”
9. Bes/Beshi/Beshie
Meaning: Endearing term for your close friend or best friend. Modern, gender-neutral and popular among all ages but especially with young people.
- Often used in text messages and social media posts.
Example: “Beshi, are you free to hang out today?”
10. Charot
Meaning: Similar to “just kidding” or “not serious,” “charot” is often added to lighten a statement or joke around.
- One of the most versatile and humorous Filipino slang words, sometimes used as a playful escape route from a bold statement.
Example: “You’re my crush… charot!“
11. Awit
Meaning: Combination of “aw” (an expression of dismay or sympathy) and “it” (from sakit, meaning pain), hence “awit” signals a feeling of disappointment, sadness, or heartbreak.
- Popularized on social media to react to unfortunate situations.
Example: “You failed the quiz? Awit.”
12. Walwal
Meaning: Slang for letting loose, partying hard, or getting drunk—derived from “walang pakialam” (not caring).
- Describes a night of fun, wild abandon, or a much-needed break from stress.
Example: “After finals week, let’s go walwal!”
13. Praning
Meaning: Used to describe someone who is paranoid, anxious, or acting irrationally wary. Originated from the English word “paranoid,” but is now deeply rooted in local language.
- Often said humorously among friends to tease someone overreacting to a situation.
Example: “Don’t be praning, it’s just a cat!”
14. Susmaryosep
Meaning: A contraction of “Jesus, Mary, and Joseph,” this interjection expresses surprise, shock, or exasperation, especially at shocking or unbelievable news.
- An iconic, old-school Filipino exclamation that still appears in both serious and light-hearted exchanges.
Example: “You bought what? Susmaryosep!“
15. Bahala Na
Meaning: The Filipino version of “come what may,” or “let fate decide.” While it literally means “leave it to whoever is in charge,” it’s a mix of resignation and courageous optimism in the face of the unknown.
- Sometimes humorously updated to “Bahala na si Batman!” (“Let Batman take care of it!”) for modern flair.
Example: “I have no more time to review for the exam, bahala na.”
How Filipino Slang Reflects National Identity
Filipino slang is more than playful words—it reveals much about Filipino society:
- Resourcefulness and humor: Filipinos love wordplay, restructuring syllables, and mixing English, Spanish, and native languages.
- Adaptability: Slang terms evolve constantly with pop culture, social media, and technology. Words like “petmalu” and “werpa” reflect how trends shape language.
- Inclusivity: Modern slang merges influences from LGBTQ+ communities, regional dialects, and foreign lingo, creating a language bridge among generations and subcultures.
- Social commentary: Phrases often mask deeper social truths, using humor and light-heartedness as coping mechanisms for daily struggles, uncertainty, and adversity.
Generational and Social Contexts
Filipino slang is highly dynamic, changing swiftly as new generations grow up in a world filled with media, technology, and exposure to global trends:
- Post-war Boomers created their own “ludling” secret codes as playful subversion of authority.
- Millennials propelled ‘swardspeak’ (queer/gay lingo) into mainstream media with terms like “charot,” “churva,” and “gora.”
- Gen Z seamlessly blend Filipino words with viral internet jargon (“skibiidi,” “fanum tax”), reflecting an evolving cultural identity.
Slang bridges the gap between groups, providing a sense of belonging while continually redefining what it means to be Filipino in every era.
Table: Selected Filipino Slang Words, Their Meanings, and Usage
| Slang Word | Literal Meaning | Modern Usage Example |
|---|---|---|
| Lodi | Idol (reverse spelling) | Singer, athlete, or admired peer |
| Kilig | Untranslatable—romantic giddiness | Seen during romantic films/scenes |
| Charot | Just kidding | After a joke or playful tease |
| Petmalu | Malupet (amazing, inverted) | Praise for skill or performance |
| Werpa | Power (reversed) | As motivation or a cheer |
| Bahala na | Let fate decide | Facing uncertainty or taking risks |
| Susmaryosep | Jesus, Mary, and Joseph (exclamation) | Reacting to shocking news |
Using Filipino Slang in Conversation
Embracing Filipino slang can help travelers and language learners sound more natural and foster connections with locals. Here are a few pointers:
- Match the context: Use more playful slang with friends; avoid overly casual terms in formal settings.
- Observe tone: Some words take on different meanings based on intonation and facial expression.
- Don’t overuse: Like any slang, it’s best enjoyed in moderation!
Slang, Social Identity, and Belonging
Slang is more than a trend; it is a social glue for Filipinos both in the homeland and diaspora. Shared words become inside jokes, code-switching between Tagalog, English, and other dialects strengthens social bonds, and even new arrivals—whether visiting relatives or friends—quickly pick up the most expressive terms. In a globalized, meme-driven era, Filipino slang continues to show its power to unify, adapt, and entertain.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How is Filipino slang created?
A: Filipino slang emerges from playful word manipulation (such as reversing syllables), borrowing from English or Spanish, integrating internet trends, and incorporating local dialects and even pop culture references.
Q: Is it appropriate to use slang words when visiting the Philippines?
A: Yes! Using common slang words shows curiosity and effort to connect. Just be mindful of context and avoid slang in formal situations.
Q: Are these slang words common throughout the whole country?
A: While many are widely recognized, some slang words or usage may vary by region. Metro Manila slang tends to spread fastest due to media influence.
Q: Are there any slang words that could be considered offensive?
A: As with any language, some slang terms (especially those used to tease or insult) are best used cautiously. Stick to lighthearted or complimentary slang as a newcomer.
Q: Why is Filipino slang so dynamic and varied?
A: Filipino slang adapts rapidly due to the country’s multicultural heritage, youthful population, prolific internet use, and the natural Filipino love for humor and creativity.
Ready to immerse yourself in Filipino culture? Give these slang words a try and discover how language brings smiles and laughter in every Filipino gathering!
