iba
ibâ with stress marks
distinct, different
Usage Note
Iba is one of the most common and versatile adjectives in Tagalog, meaning other, different, or another. It is used to indicate contrast, distinction, or an alternative. Phrases like 'iba ka talaga' (you're really different/special) are common compliments, while 'ibang-iba' emphasizes a striking difference.
Examples
" Iba ang gusto ko. "
Natural Translation
I want a different one.
Literal Translation
Different the want my.
" Iba ang lasa ng pagkain dito kumpara sa dati. "
Natural Translation
The taste of the food here is different from before.
Literal Translation
Different the taste of-the food here compared to before.
" Bagaman magkapatid sila, ibang-iba ang ugali ng dalawa kaya madalas silang hindi magkasundo. "
Natural Translation
Although they are siblings, the two have very different personalities, which is why they often don't get along.
Literal Translation
Although siblings they, very-different the character of-the two so often they not agree.
Take Tagalog with you
The full course, a 12,500-word dictionary, and flashcards that make every word stick — free to start on iOS and Android.
Tagalog builds thousands of words from a few hundred roots.
How Tagalog words workDerived Words
Related Words
Explore Tagalog by topic
Free guides on grammar, vocabulary, and culture to take you past single-word lookups.
Filipino Food: 12 Essential Dishes (With Tagalog Names)
Filipino food, from adobo to halo-halo: learn the Tagalog names, pronunciations, and ingredients behind 12 dishes you'll want to try on your first trip.
Tagalog Pronouns Explained: Complete Chart with Examples
Every Tagalog pronoun explained with clear charts: ang/ng/sa forms, tayo vs kami, ikaw vs ka, politeness markers, and the mistakes beginners make.
Po and Opo in Tagalog: Where to Put Them Right
Po and opo confuse learners — but placement follows one rule. Where po goes in a sentence, why it's opo not 'oo po', and the pronoun shift to learn.
How to Say "I Love You" in Tagalog: Phrases & Meaning
Learn how to say I love you in Tagalog. Mahal kita, Iniibig kita, and Filipino terms of endearment for partners, family, and friends — with cultural notes.