English to Cebuano: Useful Cebuano Phrases

As travellers, we know how much locals appreciate tourists attempting to speak their language. It’s an endearing way to appreciate the country’s culture through smiles from the locals. While it is a known fact that almost everyone in the Philippines speaks English, the country has Filipino (casually referred to as Tagalog, but they’re not meant to be confused from one another) as its national language. However, the Philippines has over 185 dialects spoken in the different regions and provinces the country. With its geographical setup and rich culture, you will expect to hear different tones and phonetics as you travel around. Try to notice how locals talk as you go along – it varies. Although you will be able to converse with Cebuanos in English, we’ve translated some of the most useful phrases from English to Cebuano for you to use soon as you land in Cebu. Remember that this is only applicable in Cebu. As soon as you step foot on Siargao Island, Boracay, or Nacpan Beach, it’s a different dialect altogether. Read along (or bookmark for later!) so you’re ready for your visit!

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English to Cebuano - Local Jeepney in Cebu — *Local jeepney © Courtesy of Mykee Dizon/Mad Monkey Hostels*

English to Cebuano: A Few Tips

The official language of the Philippines is Filipino. However, there are over 185 dialects in the country and each province / region will be speaking something different. Regardless of dialect however, reading anything that’s written in Filipino (or any dialect) is straightforward – read just as how it is spelt, with every syllable pronounced. For example, a greeting that is on the wall saying, “maayong adlaw,” meaning “good day,” is read as ma-a-yong ad-lao. The country was once colonised by Spain, too, so do not be surprised if you come across some words that sound like Spanish. An interesting thing to note is that “hi” and “hello” don’t exactly have a translation in Cebuano and Filipino. Instead, locals ask you how you are, or otherwise just greet you based on the time of day. A more formal welcome greeting would be, “Mabuhay!” which indirectly translates to “long live!”

English to Cebuano: The Basics

Good day	Maayong adlaw (the last syllable in adlaw is read as if you want to say “loud”)
Good morning	Maayong buntag (long ‘u’ as in the word “put”)
Good noon	Maayong udto (long ‘u’ as in the word “put”)
Good evening	Maayong gabii (short ‘a,’ all syllables are pronounced in gabii with the last syllable read as the letter ‘e’ – gabi-e)
How are you?	Kumusta ka? (same as in Filipino / Tagalog; see the Spanish resemblance?)
I’m fine	Maayo ra ko
Goodbye	Paalam
Yes	Oo (say two O’s)
No	Dili
Thank you	Salamat
Thank you very much	Daghang salamat
Please	Palihug (‘u’ is long, like an O)
Sorry / Excuse me	Pasayloa ko
I don’t understand	Wa ko kasabot
I don’t know	Ambot / ambot lang
Do you speak English?	Kahibaw ka mu English?
Bathroom	Banyo
How much is this?	Tagpila ni?
Expensive	Mahal
What’s your name?	Unsa ang imong ngalan?
My name is _____	Akong ngalan ay _____
What time is it?	Unsa na orasa karon?

English to Cebuano: Restaurant Phrases

Restaurant	Kan-anan
Delicious	Lami
Spicy	Halang / hang
I am hungry	Gigutom na ko
I am a vegetarian	Di ko puwede mukaon ug karne (literally, I’m not able to eat meat)
One water, please	Usa ka tubig, palihug
One beer, please	Usa ka beer, palihug
The check, please	Akong bill, palihug

English to Cebuano: Giving Directions

Where is…?	.Asa ang ___ ?
I want to go to…	Ganahan ko moadto sa ..
Go straight	Diretso ra
Turn left	Adto sa wala
Turn right	Adto sa tuo
Stop here, please	Lugar lang / hunong na dinhi
I’m lost	Nawala ko

English to Cebuano: Dating/Romantic Phrases

I am single	Wala koy uyab (literally, I don’t have a boyfriend / girlfriend)
I have a boyfriend/girlfriend	Naa koy uyab
I’m married	Minyo na ko
What’s your number?	Unsa imong number?
You are beautiful	Gwapa ka
You are very beautiful	Gwapa kaayo ka
I love you	Gihigugma tika
I miss you	Gimingaw ko nimo
Term of endearment	Hinigugma (directly translates to “beloved”)

Want a few more Cebuano tips? Then watch this video!

More information about English to Cebuano and Useful Cebuano Phrases

Did this article get you excited to learn Cebuano? If you’re heading to Cebu soon or already here, check out these articles and you’ll be speaking like a local in no time!

Useful Cebuano Phrases by Omniglot
Useful Bisaya (Cebuano) Phrases You Should Know Before Visiting Visayas And Mindanao by Looloo, Inc.
Basic Cebuano Phrases to Learn from Tagalog Lang
Helpful Cebuano Phrases and Words for Tourists from Philippines Insider

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About the Author

Mad Monkey is Southeast Asia’s leading hostel operator — born in Cambodia with more properties in Thailand, Indonesia, Australia, Laos, and the Philippines. We pride ourselves in creating meaningful and sustainable travel experiences for our guests, whilst promoting socially responsible tourism.