Amboy
Ambóy with stress marks
short for American boy
Usage Note
Amboy is a colloquial blend of 'American boy,' used to describe Filipino-Americans who grew up in the US and are perceived as out of touch with Philippine culture — often speaking Tagalog with a strong American accent. The term can be affectionate, teasing, or mildly derogatory depending on tone and context.
Examples
" Amboy ang bago kong kaibigan. "
Natural Translation
My new friend is an Amboy.
Literal Translation
American-boy the new my friend.
" Mukhang Amboy ang pinsan ko. "
Natural Translation
My cousin looks like an American boy.
Literal Translation
Looks American-boy the cousin my.
" Kahit ipinanganak sa Maynila, tinatawag siyang Amboy dahil sa makapal niyang puntong Amerikano kapag nagsasalita ng Tagalog. "
Natural Translation
Even though he was born in Manila, they call him an Amboy because of his thick American accent when he speaks Tagalog.
Literal Translation
Even-though born in Manila, called he Amboy because-of thick his accent American when speaking of Tagalog.
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