Bedeutung
Using harsh or hurtful words when speaking.
Kultureller Hintergrund
In Tagalog culture, 'matalas ang dila' is a serious social flaw because it directly opposes 'pakikisama' (social harmony). A person with this trait is often the subject of 'tsismis' (gossip). In the Philippines, certain talk show hosts are famous for being 'matalas ang dila.' This is often seen as a form of entertainment or 'pagsasabi ng totoo' (telling the truth), even if it's hurtful. Older family members (like grandmothers or aunts) are sometimes 'allowed' to be 'matalas ang dila' as a sign of authority, though it is still resented by the younger generation. A 'matalas ang dila' boss is a common reason for high employee turnover in the Philippines, as Filipino employees value 'amor propio' (self-esteem) and don't handle public scolding well.
Don't use it as a compliment
Never tell someone 'Matalas ang dila mo' if you mean they are smart. They will be offended!
Use with 'Napakatalas'
If you want to sound more native when complaining, use 'Napakatalas ng dila...' to show how much it bothers you.
Bedeutung
Using harsh or hurtful words when speaking.
Don't use it as a compliment
Never tell someone 'Matalas ang dila mo' if you mean they are smart. They will be offended!
Use with 'Napakatalas'
If you want to sound more native when complaining, use 'Napakatalas ng dila...' to show how much it bothers you.
Indirectness is key
Filipinos usually say this behind someone's back. Saying it to their face is considered a direct confrontation.
Teste dich selbst
Fill in the blank with the correct word to complete the idiom.
Huwag kang makinig sa kanya, matalas ang ______ niya.
The idiom is 'matalas ang dila.' Using 'kamay' (hand), 'paa' (foot), or 'mata' (eye) would not make sense in this context.
Which of the following situations best describes someone who is 'matalas ang dila'?
Sino sa kanila ang matalas ang dila?
'Matalas ang dila' refers to someone who insults (nanlalait) and speaks harshly.
Complete the dialogue between two friends.
A: 'Bakit umiiyak si Lito?' B: 'Kasi pinagalitan siya ni Aling Nena. Alam mo naman na ______.'
The context of someone crying after being scolded suggests the person scolding has a 'sharp tongue.'
Match the phrase to the correct meaning.
Matalas ang dila
This is the figurative meaning of the idiom.
🎉 Ergebnis: /4
Visuelle Lernhilfen
Matalas: Dila vs. Isip
Aufgabensammlung
4 AufgabenHuwag kang makinig sa kanya, matalas ang ______ niya.
The idiom is 'matalas ang dila.' Using 'kamay' (hand), 'paa' (foot), or 'mata' (eye) would not make sense in this context.
Sino sa kanila ang matalas ang dila?
'Matalas ang dila' refers to someone who insults (nanlalait) and speaks harshly.
A: 'Bakit umiiyak si Lito?' B: 'Kasi pinagalitan siya ni Aling Nena. Alam mo naman na ______.'
The context of someone crying after being scolded suggests the person scolding has a 'sharp tongue.'
Matalas ang dila
This is the figurative meaning of the idiom.
🎉 Ergebnis: /4
Häufig gestellte Fragen
10 FragenYes, in 99% of cases, it is a negative description of someone's character or behavior.
Yes, it is gender-neutral. Both men and women can be described as having a sharp tongue.
There isn't one exact idiom, but 'mabait magsalita' (speaks kindly) or 'malumanay' (gentle in speech) are good opposites.
No, it is a standard idiom that has been part of the language for centuries.
You say 'Matalas ang dila niya.'
No, that would be 'mahilig sa maanghang.'
Only if you are describing a problem with someone's communication style in a private setting. Avoid it in public meetings.
Not necessarily. A person can say only one sentence, but if that sentence is very hurtful, they have a 'matalas ang dila.'
Matalas = Hurtful. Matabil = Talkative/Gossipy.
It's more common to say 'Masama ang bibig,' but people will understand 'Matalas ang bibig.'
Verwandte Redewendungen
Matalas ang isip
similarIntelligent or quick-witted
Masama ang bibig
synonymHaving a foul mouth
Matabil ang dila
similarTalkative or gossipy
Mabulaklak ang dila
contrastFlowery speech / sweet talker
