Signification
Be careful what you say; gossip spreads.
Contexte culturel
Gossip (tsismis) is a major part of social life. This proverb acts as a necessary caution in a culture where information is shared very quickly. The term 'Marites' has become the modern face of this proverb. It refers to a stereotypical gossiper who 'has ears' everywhere. Filipino offices are often very social. This phrase is used to navigate office politics without being seen as a 'snitch' or 'sipsip'. The phrase reflects a history of surveillance during colonial times, where speaking against the government was dangerous.
Shorten it!
In casual talk, just say 'May tainga ang lupa.' Everyone knows the rest.
Don't be literal
If you use this while looking at the dirt, people will think you are looking for worms, not warning them about secrets.
Signification
Be careful what you say; gossip spreads.
Shorten it!
In casual talk, just say 'May tainga ang lupa.' Everyone knows the rest.
Don't be literal
If you use this while looking at the dirt, people will think you are looking for worms, not warning them about secrets.
The Marites Connection
Mentioning 'Marites' alongside this phrase makes you sound very native and up-to-date with Filipino humor.
Teste-toi
Complete the proverb.
May tainga ang _____, may pakpak ang balita.
The canonical form uses 'lupa' (ground).
When is it most appropriate to use this phrase?
You are in a crowded elevator and your friend starts talking about a secret company project.
The phrase is a warning about eavesdropping.
Match the Filipino word to its English meaning in the proverb.
Match the following:
These are the four key components of the full proverb.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Alam mo ba yung sikreto ni Maria?' B: 'Sshh! _________.'
This is the standard response to stop someone from sharing a secret in a risky place.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
4 exercicesMay tainga ang _____, may pakpak ang balita.
The canonical form uses 'lupa' (ground).
You are in a crowded elevator and your friend starts talking about a secret company project.
The phrase is a warning about eavesdropping.
Associez chaque element a gauche avec son pair a droite :
These are the four key components of the full proverb.
A: 'Alam mo ba yung sikreto ni Maria?' B: 'Sshh! _________.'
This is the standard response to stop someone from sharing a secret in a risky place.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsNo, it's usually a helpful warning between friends. However, saying it loudly might offend people nearby by implying they are eavesdropping.
Yes, 'tenga' is the most common way people actually say it in Manila. 'Tainga' is more formal/literary.
It means news travels fast, as if it has wings to fly from person to person.
Yes, 'May mata ang langit' (The sky has eyes), but it's used for moral behavior, not gossip.
Absolutely. It's a classic that hasn't lost its relevance, especially with the rise of social media leaks.
Yes, to warn colleagues about discussing sensitive info in public areas like elevators or cafes.
You can, and people will understand, but 'lupa' is the traditional Filipino version.
It is technically a 'salawikain' (proverb) because it offers a piece of wisdom or a rule for living.
Usually, you just lower your voice or stop talking. You can say 'Ay, oo nga' (Oh, right) or 'Sige, mamaya na lang' (Okay, later then).
Not directly, though it aligns with general values of modesty and discretion found in many cultures.
Expressions liées
May pakpak ang balita
builds onNews has wings.
Bulong-bulungan
similarWhispers or rumors.
Bantay-sarado
specialized formClosely guarded.
Walang lihim na hindi nabubunyag
similarNo secret remains unrevealed.
