biro
birô with stress marks
joke, tease
Usage Note
Biro is central to Filipino social interaction — humor and teasing are key bonding mechanisms. The phrase 'biro mo lang' (just joking) is used to soften statements, and 'hindi ito biro' (this is no joke) signals genuine seriousness. Biro is expected between close friends and family.
Examples
" Biro lang iyon. "
Natural Translation
That was just a joke.
Literal Translation
Joke only that.
" Biro lang iyon, huwag kang magtampo. "
Natural Translation
That was just a joke, don't be offended.
Literal Translation
Joke only that, don't you be-hurt.
" Akala ko biro lang ang sinabi niya, pero seryoso pala siya kaya napahiya ako sa aking reaksiyon. "
Natural Translation
I thought what he said was just a joke, but he was actually serious, so I was embarrassed by my reaction.
Literal Translation
Thought I joke only the said he, but serious turns-out he so embarrassed I in my reaction.
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