Usage Note
Modo is borrowed from Spanish modo (manner, way) but in Tagalog it specifically means polite or proper behavior, especially toward elders. The rebuke walang modo (no manners) is widely understood across generations and is one of the most common ways to call out rude conduct.
Examples
" Walang modo ang bata. "
Natural Translation
The child has no manners.
Literal Translation
None manners the child.
" Dapat mong turuan ang iyong anak ng tamang modo sa hapag-kainan. "
Natural Translation
You should teach your child proper manners at the dining table.
Literal Translation
Should you to-teach the your child of right manners at dining-table.
" Kahit galit ka, panatilihin mo ang tamang modo at huwag kang magtaas ng boses sa nakatatanda. "
Natural Translation
Even if you're angry, keep your proper manners and don't raise your voice at your elders.
Literal Translation
Even angry you, keep by-you the right manners and don't you raise of voice at elder.
Tagalog builds thousands of words from a few hundred roots.
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