"San mo gusto kumain?" (Where do you want to eat?)
"Ikaw?" (You?)
Familiar? Probably because most of us can't make up our minds so we answer a question with another question but I think that is not solely the reason why we respond this way most of the time. To me, "Ikaw" is one of the most romantic words in the Tagalog language. We care about the other person asking this question which is why we'd want to consider and prioritize their options over ours. We are interested to know their wants and needs. Ah sweet.
This word is so romantic the word "Ikaw" was mentioned in Yeng Constantino's song "Ikaw" 20 times. Maybe that's why this song was so popular on youtube with 132,204,921 views.
But Nmore, "Ikaw" is just a common word which just translates to "You" of course it will be used frequently. Yes, it is but what I'm also talking about is the sound and Ompf of this word.
Let's get into some translations, shall we?
"I love you" when translated in Tagalog is usually "Mahal kita" but it can also be...
Ikaw ay mahal ko
Ikaw ang mahal ko
Ikaw ay aking mahal
Isn't that just...
Gif from Brand6148
I don't know about you but I'd probably feel all buzzy, rainbowy, and glittery within if someone says those words to me. Ehe
The word "ikaw" can stand as is. It can be used to show endearment, admiration, or affection towards a love one, making the word playful and romantic. With this magic word, you can make anyone flustered and disorganized.
Exhibit A
I can imagine Arc's face probably contorted into something like this.
The cringe and kilig are evident but I'm not sure. We can ask
what she felt.
The word "Ikaw" is my favorite Tagalog word because I'm a romantic. Just kidding. To me, the said word implies a deeper emotional connection and conveys warmth and affection toward the person being addressed, and can elicit a positive emotional response...
unless you're part of a pinoy drama getting blamed for something you never did.
Meow.
So next time when someone asks you.
"What do you want to eat" you answer with I--
"Ikaw ba?"(how bout you?) HAHAHA
This is my official entry for HivePh May Blogging Contest.
Banner created on Canva.
Background photo from Vladimir Čipi.