Signification
Rumors usually have some basis in truth.
Contexte culturel
The term 'Marites' is a modern cultural icon representing the person who spreads 'usok' (rumors). Using the proverb often invites a 'Marites' to share more details. In provinces, smoke from a 'dirty kitchen' (outdoor kitchen) is a sign of hospitality. If there is smoke, there is food being prepared for guests. Entertainment talk shows (like 'Startalk' or 'The Buzz' historically) built their entire business model on this proverb, investigating 'smoke' to find the 'fire'. The proverb is often used as a warning for employees to be observant of 'pahiwatig' (hints) from management to avoid being blindsided by changes.
Use it to be indirect
If you want to say someone is lying without calling them a liar, use this proverb. It sounds more like 'common wisdom' than a personal attack.
Don't be a 'Marites'
While the proverb is common, using it too much might make you look like a gossip-monger.
Signification
Rumors usually have some basis in truth.
Use it to be indirect
If you want to say someone is lying without calling them a liar, use this proverb. It sounds more like 'common wisdom' than a personal attack.
Don't be a 'Marites'
While the proverb is common, using it too much might make you look like a gossip-monger.
Teste-toi
Complete the proverb.
Kapag may ____, may apoy.
The correct word is 'usok' (smoke).
Which situation best fits the proverb?
You hear three different people say that a new restaurant is closing down, even though the owner says they are just 'renovating'.
The proverb is used when rumors (the restaurant closing) likely have a basis in truth despite denials.
Choose the best response.
Friend: 'Totoo kaya na magpapakasal na sila?' You: 'Hindi ko alam, pero ____.'
This is the natural way to suggest that the marriage rumor might be true.
🎉 Score : /3
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
3 exercicesKapag may ____, may apoy.
The correct word is 'usok' (smoke).
You hear three different people say that a new restaurant is closing down, even though the owner says they are just 'renovating'.
The proverb is used when rumors (the restaurant closing) likely have a basis in truth despite denials.
Friend: 'Totoo kaya na magpapakasal na sila?' You: 'Hindi ko alam, pero ____.'
This is the natural way to suggest that the marriage rumor might be true.
🎉 Score : /3
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsIt is neutral. You can use it with friends, but also in a business meeting if discussing market rumors.
Yes, 'Kung' (If) is also correct and very common.
Usually, yes. Rumors are often negative. However, it can be used for positive surprises too, like a secret party.
There isn't a direct opposite proverb, but one might say 'Huwag maniwala sa sabi-sabi' (Don't believe in hearsay).
In this proverb, yes. But 'usok' can also mean exhaust or steam in other contexts.
It's ah-POY, with the stress on the last syllable. Don't say AH-poy.
Absolutely. It's very common in group chats when discussing news.
Yes, Cebuano and Ilocano have their own versions, but the Tagalog one is the most widely recognized.
Filipino grammar requires 'may' before each noun to indicate existence: 'There is smoke, there is fire.'
It depends on your relationship. It's better to use it about a situation, not about the boss directly.
Expressions liées
Walang usok na nakukubli
similarNo smoke can be hidden.
May tainga ang lupa
similarThe ground has ears.
Naglalaro ng apoy
builds onPlaying with fire.
