Essential Tagalog Idioms for Beginners

Literal translation: Lifting one's own bench

Meaning: Bragging or praising oneself.

Literal translation: Turtle-move

Meaning: Moving or working very slowly.

Literal translation: Shallow tears

Meaning: Easily cries or gets emotional.

Literal translation: Iron hand

Meaning: Strict or severe leadership/discipline.

Literal translation: Child of poverty

Meaning: A poor person or someone born into poverty.

Literal translation: Mouth-opening

Meaning: A favorite phrase or a topic/person someone constantly talks about.