Asking Questions in Tagalog

Phrases, Vocabulary, Everyday Words

Learning how to ask questions is one of the fastest ways to start real conversations in Tagalog.

Below are the essential question words every beginner should know—plus simple examples you can use right away.

WHAT?

Ano?
Meaning: What?

Example:
Ano ang pangalan mo?
What is your name?

WHEN?

Kailan?
Meaning: When?

Example:
Kailan ka natulog?
When did you sleep?

WHICH?

Alin?
Meaning: Which?

Example:
Alin ang gusto mong amoy?
Which scent do you like?

WHERE?

Saan?
Meaning: Where?

Example:
Saan ka matutulog?
Where will you sleep?

WHY?

Bakit?
Meaning: Why?

Example:
Bakit mo siya inaway?
Why did you fight him?

HOW?

Paano?
Meaning: How?

Example:
Paano ka nakauwi kagabi?
How did you get home last night?

HOW MUCH?

Magkano?
Meaning: How much?

Example:
Magkano ang tubig?
How much is the water?