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Dec 18, 2025
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Mga Tayutay: Pagkilala at Pag-unawa sa Wikaing Pilipino
Knowunity Philippines
@knowunityphilippines
1 / 10
What Are Figures of Speech in Filipino?
Think of mga tayutay as the secret ingredients that make Filipino writing absolutely brilliant. These aren't just fancy words - they're tools that transform ordinary sentences into something that sticks in your memory forever.
The word "tayutay" comes from "tayo," meaning "to stand" - and that's exactly what these devices do. They make ideas stand out from the crowd of regular words. You'll find them everywhere in Filipino culture, from your lola's stories to modern rap songs.
Learning tayutay isn't just about passing your Filipino exams (though it definitely helps!). These literary devices help you understand the deeper meanings in poems, appreciate song lyrics, and even make your own writing way more impressive.
Quick Tip: You probably use tayutay every day without realising it - Filipino conversation is packed with these colourful expressions!
Comparison-Based Figures of Speech
Pagtutulad (Simile) is like introducing two strangers at a party - you use connecting words like "tulad ng" or "gaya ng" to show how they're similar. When you say "Ang kanyang ngiti ay tulad ng araw sa umaga" (Her smile is like the morning sun), you're helping readers picture exactly how bright that smile is.
Pagwawangis (Metaphor) is simile's bolder cousin - it skips the connecting words and says one thing is another. "Ikaw ang liwanag ng aming tahanan" (You are the light of our home) doesn't mean someone's literally a lightbulb, but it shows how important they are.
Personipikasyon (Personification) gives human qualities to non-human things. When Filipinos say "Umiiyak ang kalangitan" (The sky is crying), everyone knows it means rain - but it sounds way more poetic than just saying "it's raining."
Study Smart: Metaphors are stronger than similes because they create direct connections without "like" or "as" words!
Sound and Rhythm Figures of Speech
Aliterasyon (Alliteration) makes words sound musical by repeating the same starting consonant sounds. Try saying "Batang babae sa bayan ng Bataan" out loud - notice how the repeated "b" sounds create a rhythm that's satisfying to hear.
Asonansya (Assonance) focuses on vowel sounds instead, creating internal music within sentences. "Ang mga mata ay nagniningning sa dilim" flows beautifully because of those repeated vowel patterns.
Onomatopeya (Onomatopoeia) brings sounds to life with words like "tak-tak-tak" for rain or "kaluskos" for rustling leaves. These words make you hear the action, not just read about it.
Pro Tip: Read Filipino poems aloud to really appreciate how sound devices create rhythm and mood!
Exaggeration and Contrast Figures of Speech
Pagmamalabis (Hyperbole) cranks everything up to eleven for dramatic effect. When someone says "Naghihintay ako ng isang libong taon" (I've been waiting a thousand years), they're not actually immortal - they're just emphasising how long the wait feels.
Pagtatambis (Antithesis) puts opposite ideas side by side to create powerful contrasts. "Mayaman sa yaman, ngunit mahirap sa pagmamahal" (Rich in wealth, but poor in love) shows how someone can have everything yet nothing at the same time.
Ironia (Irony) says one thing but means the complete opposite, often with a sarcastic twist. Saying "Ang galing mo naman!" when someone drops their books creates humour through contradiction.
Remember: Hyperbole works because the exaggeration is so obvious that everyone knows it's not literal!
Advanced Literary Devices
Sinekdoke (Synecdoche) uses parts to represent wholes or vice versa. When Filipinos say "Limang bibig ang kakain" (Five mouths will eat), they mean five people - it's a clever way to avoid repetition whilst adding sophistication.
Metonimia (Metonymy) swaps names for closely related things. These advanced techniques show up in serious literature and help create more varied, interesting language.
Mastering these figurative language techniques takes practice, but once you spot them in Filipino texts, you'll appreciate how cleverly writers use language. They're not just showing off - they're making their words more memorable and impactful.
Challenge Yourself: Try creating your own examples of each tayutay - it's the best way to truly understand how they work!
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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4.9/5
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4.8/5
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
Mga Tayutay: Pagkilala at Pag-unawa sa Wikaing Pilipino
Knowunity Philippines
@knowunityphilippines
Ever wondered how Filipino writers make their words come alive? They use special language tricks called mga tayutay - figures of speech that make writing more colourful and powerful than plain, boring sentences.
What Are Figures of Speech in Filipino?
Think of mga tayutay as the secret ingredients that make Filipino writing absolutely brilliant. These aren't just fancy words - they're tools that transform ordinary sentences into something that sticks in your memory forever.
The word "tayutay" comes from "tayo," meaning "to stand" - and that's exactly what these devices do. They make ideas stand out from the crowd of regular words. You'll find them everywhere in Filipino culture, from your lola's stories to modern rap songs.
Learning tayutay isn't just about passing your Filipino exams (though it definitely helps!). These literary devices help you understand the deeper meanings in poems, appreciate song lyrics, and even make your own writing way more impressive.
Quick Tip: You probably use tayutay every day without realising it - Filipino conversation is packed with these colourful expressions!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Comparison-Based Figures of Speech
Pagtutulad (Simile) is like introducing two strangers at a party - you use connecting words like "tulad ng" or "gaya ng" to show how they're similar. When you say "Ang kanyang ngiti ay tulad ng araw sa umaga" (Her smile is like the morning sun), you're helping readers picture exactly how bright that smile is.
Pagwawangis (Metaphor) is simile's bolder cousin - it skips the connecting words and says one thing is another. "Ikaw ang liwanag ng aming tahanan" (You are the light of our home) doesn't mean someone's literally a lightbulb, but it shows how important they are.
Personipikasyon (Personification) gives human qualities to non-human things. When Filipinos say "Umiiyak ang kalangitan" (The sky is crying), everyone knows it means rain - but it sounds way more poetic than just saying "it's raining."
Study Smart: Metaphors are stronger than similes because they create direct connections without "like" or "as" words!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Sound and Rhythm Figures of Speech
Aliterasyon (Alliteration) makes words sound musical by repeating the same starting consonant sounds. Try saying "Batang babae sa bayan ng Bataan" out loud - notice how the repeated "b" sounds create a rhythm that's satisfying to hear.
Asonansya (Assonance) focuses on vowel sounds instead, creating internal music within sentences. "Ang mga mata ay nagniningning sa dilim" flows beautifully because of those repeated vowel patterns.
Onomatopeya (Onomatopoeia) brings sounds to life with words like "tak-tak-tak" for rain or "kaluskos" for rustling leaves. These words make you hear the action, not just read about it.
Pro Tip: Read Filipino poems aloud to really appreciate how sound devices create rhythm and mood!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Exaggeration and Contrast Figures of Speech
Pagmamalabis (Hyperbole) cranks everything up to eleven for dramatic effect. When someone says "Naghihintay ako ng isang libong taon" (I've been waiting a thousand years), they're not actually immortal - they're just emphasising how long the wait feels.
Pagtatambis (Antithesis) puts opposite ideas side by side to create powerful contrasts. "Mayaman sa yaman, ngunit mahirap sa pagmamahal" (Rich in wealth, but poor in love) shows how someone can have everything yet nothing at the same time.
Ironia (Irony) says one thing but means the complete opposite, often with a sarcastic twist. Saying "Ang galing mo naman!" when someone drops their books creates humour through contradiction.
Remember: Hyperbole works because the exaggeration is so obvious that everyone knows it's not literal!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Advanced Literary Devices
Sinekdoke (Synecdoche) uses parts to represent wholes or vice versa. When Filipinos say "Limang bibig ang kakain" (Five mouths will eat), they mean five people - it's a clever way to avoid repetition whilst adding sophistication.
Metonimia (Metonymy) swaps names for closely related things. These advanced techniques show up in serious literature and help create more varied, interesting language.
Mastering these figurative language techniques takes practice, but once you spot them in Filipino texts, you'll appreciate how cleverly writers use language. They're not just showing off - they're making their words more memorable and impactful.
Challenge Yourself: Try creating your own examples of each tayutay - it's the best way to truly understand how they work!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user