Usage Note
Tabo is one of the most iconic everyday objects in Filipino homes — a small plastic or metal cup with a handle used to scoop water in the bathroom for flushing, washing, or bathing. It has become a cultural touchstone: Filipino diaspora communities often joke affectionately about the tabo as a symbol of home.
Examples
" Nasaan ang tabo? "
Natural Translation
Where is the dipper?
Literal Translation
Where the dipper?
" Kumuha siya ng tubig gamit ang tabo. "
Natural Translation
He/she got water using the dipper.
Literal Translation
Got he/she of water using dipper.
" Kapag wala kang tabo sa banyo, mahihirapan kang maghugas o maligo nang maayos. "
Natural Translation
If you have no dipper in the bathroom, you'll have a hard time washing or bathing properly.
Literal Translation
When none you dipper in bathroom, will-have-difficulty you wash or bathe properly.
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