kaya
kayâ with stress marks
therefore, perhaps
Also means
Kaya also means 'ability' or 'can' when used as a noun or modal.
Usage Note
Kaya as a conjunction or sentence-final particle connects cause and effect, functioning like 'so' or 'that's why,' or expresses speculation in the sense of 'I wonder' or 'perhaps.' It is one of the most versatile and frequently used words in Tagalog and essential for natural-sounding speech.
Examples
" Umuulan kaya bumalik kami. "
Natural Translation
It was raining, so we went back.
Literal Translation
Raining so returned we.
" Sino kaya ang kumatok sa pinto? "
Natural Translation
Who perhaps knocked on the door?
Literal Translation
Who perhaps the knocked on-the door?
" Maaga siyang umalis kaya hindi na natin siya naabutan sa bahay nang dumating tayo. "
Natural Translation
She left early, so we no longer caught her at the house when we arrived.
Literal Translation
Early she left so not anymore we her caught at house when arrived we.
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