ano
anó with stress marks
what
Also means
Ano is also used as a filler or conversational pause, similar to 'um' or 'uh,' and informally as a euphemistic placeholder when the speaker wants to avoid naming something directly.
Usage Note
Ano is one of the most versatile words in Filipino, functioning as the basic question word for 'what.' It is used in yes/no question tags ('ano?'), as a euphemism when a word slips the speaker's mind, and in numerous set expressions. Learners will encounter it constantly in daily conversation.
Examples
" Ano ang ginagawa mo? "
Natural Translation
What are you doing?
Literal Translation
What the doing your?
" Ano ang pangalan mo? "
Natural Translation
What is your name?
Literal Translation
What the name your?
" Ano ang plano mong gawin pagkatapos mong magtapos sa kolehiyo sa susunod na taon? "
Natural Translation
What do you plan to do after you graduate from college next year?
Literal Translation
What the plan your-to do after your-to graduate from college on next year?
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