Meaning
Checking if something is right or accurate.
Cultural Background
In Manila, 'Tama ba?' is often shortened to just 'Tama?' with a rising intonation in very casual settings. Visayans speaking Tagalog might use 'Sakto ba?' more frequently as 'Sakto' is the common word for 'correct' in Cebuano. In offices, 'Tama ba?' is a tool for 'alignment.' It is used to ensure everyone is following the same KPI or project goal. Fil-Ams often use 'Correct ba?' as a hybrid form, blending English vocabulary with Tagalog syntax.
The Nod
When you say 'Tama ba?', give a small, quick nod. It makes you sound much more like a native speaker.
The 'Po' Rule
If you are over 20 and the other person is over 40, always use 'Tama po ba?'.
Meaning
Checking if something is right or accurate.
The Nod
When you say 'Tama ba?', give a small, quick nod. It makes you sound much more like a native speaker.
The 'Po' Rule
If you are over 20 and the other person is over 40, always use 'Tama po ba?'.
Don't be afraid to ask
Filipinos love it when foreigners try to speak the language. Asking 'Tama ba?' shows you care about getting it right.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence to ask if the price is right politely.
Sampung piso ang bayad, tama ___ ba?
Adding 'po' makes the question polite and respectful.
Which phrase is best for checking if you have the right directions?
You are talking to a jeepney driver. What do you say?
This is the most natural and polite way to confirm a location.
Match the phrase to the situation.
Situation: You are 90% sure it's raining, but you want your friend to agree.
'Diba?' is used when you expect agreement, whereas 'Tama ba?' is for genuine verification.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesSampung piso ang bayad, tama ___ ba?
Adding 'po' makes the question polite and respectful.
You are talking to a jeepney driver. What do you say?
This is the most natural and polite way to confirm a location.
Situation: You are 90% sure it's raining, but you want your friend to agree.
'Diba?' is used when you expect agreement, whereas 'Tama ba?' is for genuine verification.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsYes, in informal settings, the 'ba' is often dropped, but the rising intonation must be clear.
No, it is very polite as long as you don't use a sarcastic tone.
'Tama' is everyday language; 'Wasto' is for formal documents and school.
Related Phrases
Diba?
similarRight? / Isn't it?
Wasto ba?
specialized formIs it correct?
Totoo ba?
similarIs it true?
Mali ba?
contrastIs it wrong?
