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taga-

prefix used for origin, work, or duty

affix TA-ga- Grammatical origin Common

Usage Note

Taga- is a native prefix that forms nouns indicating a person's place of origin or professional role and duty — taga-Cebu means from Cebu, while tagapagluto means the cook. It is extremely productive and commonly used in both formal writing and everyday conversation.

Examples

Beginner

" Taga-saan ka? "

Natural Translation

Where are you from?

Literal Translation

From-where you?

Intermediate

" Siya ay taga-Maynila. "

Natural Translation

He/she is from Manila.

Literal Translation

He/she is from Manila.

Advanced

" Bagaman taga-probinsya siya, mabilis siyang nakibagay sa buhay-lungsod nang lumipat siya sa Maynila para sa trabaho. "

Natural Translation

Although she is from the province, she quickly adapted to city life when she moved to Manila for work.

Literal Translation

Although from-province she, quick she adapted to city-life when moved she to Manila for the work.

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