That in Tagalog

“That” in Tagalog can be translated as “iyan,” “yan,” “iyon,” or “yon” depending on the distance and context. “Iyan/yan” refers to something near the listener, while “iyon/yon” refers to something far from both speaker and listener. These demonstrative pronouns are essential in everyday Filipino conversation.

Let’s explore the different uses and contexts of “that” in Tagalog to help you understand when to use each variation correctly.

[Words] = That

[Definition]:

• That /ðæt/
• Pronoun: Used to identify a specific person or thing observed or heard by the speaker
• Determiner: Used to identify a specific person or thing
• Adverb: To such a degree; so
• Conjunction: Introducing a subordinate clause

[Synonyms] = Iyan, Yan, Iyon, Yon, Yun, Na, Niyan, Niyon

[Example]:

• Ex1_EN: That book on the table is mine.
• Ex1_PH: Iyang libro sa mesa ay akin.
• Ex2_EN: I heard that you got a new job.
• Ex2_PH: Narinig ko na nakakuha ka ng bagong trabaho.
• Ex3_EN: That house over there is very expensive.
• Ex3_PH: Iyong bahay sa dulo ay napakamamahal.
• Ex4_EN: Is that your phone ringing?
• Ex4_PH: Iyan ba ang tumutunog na telepono mo?
• Ex5_EN: The problem is that we don’t have enough time.
• Ex5_PH: Ang problema ay wala tayong sapat na oras.