in-
prefix for object focus verbs
Usage Note
In- is a highly productive Tagalog verbal affix that marks completed or past action with object focus, indicating the action was performed on a specific object. It is infixed into the root — bili becomes binili — and is one of the most fundamental morphological elements in Tagalog grammar.
Examples
" Kinain ko ang mansanas. "
Natural Translation
I ate the apple.
Literal Translation
Ate by-me the apple.
" Binili niya ang pagkain sa palengke. "
Natural Translation
He/She bought the food at the market.
Literal Translation
Bought he/she the food at-the market.
" Sinulat niya ang liham sa kaniyang lola bago pa man magsimula ang klase kanina. "
Natural Translation
She wrote the letter to her grandmother even before class started earlier.
Literal Translation
Wrote she the letter to her grandmother before even start the class earlier.
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