Filipino Swear Words: Ranked Strongest to Weakest (X-Rated)

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Filipino Swear Words: Ranked Strongest to Weakest

The Philippines is known for its vibrant culture, warm hospitality, and expressive language—and that extends to its colorful and sometimes brutal swear words. Filipino profanity is a mix of Tagalog terms, Spanish influence, and inventive combinations, making it as creative as it is cutting. Whether you’re frustrated by Manila traffic, venting about life, or joking with friends, Filipino swear words add flair to any conversation. Here’s your ultimate guide to Filipino swearing, ranked from strongest to weakest.

The Strongest Swear Words in the Philippines

1. Putang Ina (Poo-Tang Ee-Nah)

The Ultimate Insult

“Putang ina,” meaning “son of a b****” or literally “your mother is a whore,” is one of the most offensive phrases in Filipino. It’s a nuclear insult and is often used to express extreme anger.

Example:
- “Putang ina mo!” (You son of a b****!)
- “Ano ba, putang ina!” (What the f***, damn it!)
Pro Tip: This is as strong as it gets—use with caution as it can spark major confrontations.

2. Gago (Gah-Go)

The Classic Fool

“Gago,” meaning “stupid” or “a**hole,” is a sharp insult often aimed at men. It’s one of the most common swear words in Filipino.

Example:
- “Ang gago mo talaga!” (You’re such an idiot!)
- “Ano ka ba, gago?!” (What’s wrong with you, stupid?!)
Pro Tip: While offensive, it’s often used jokingly among friends.

3. Leche (Leh-Cheh)

The Blunt Curse

“Leche,” meaning “damn” or “curse,” literally translates to “milk” from Spanish, but in Filipino, it’s a sharp exclamation of anger or frustration.

Example:
- “Leche ka!” (Damn you!)
- “Leche itong araw na ito!” (Damn this day!)
Pro Tip: This word is strong but less offensive than “putang ina.”

Mid-Tier Filipino Insults (Still Pack a Punch)

4. Peste (Pes-Teh)

The Pest Insult

“Peste,” meaning “pest” or “plague,” is a strong insult used to express frustration or annoyance with someone or something.

Example:
- “Peste ka talaga!” (You’re such a pest!)
- “Ang peste ng trabaho ko ngayon.” (My job is such a hassle right now.)
Pro Tip: It’s offensive but can also be used humorously depending on tone.

5. Bwisit (Bwee-Sit)

The Everyday Frustration

“Bwisit,” meaning “damn” or “annoying,” is used to express anger or describe a frustrating situation.

Example:
- “Bwisit ka, tumigil ka na!” (Damn you, stop it already!)
- “Bwisit ang trapik!” (Damn the traffic!)
Pro Tip: It’s widely used in casual settings without being too harsh.

6. Hayop Ka (Hi-Yop Kah)

The Animal Slam

“Hayop ka,” meaning “you animal,” is a sharp insult that’s often aimed at someone’s rude or despicable behavior.

Example:
- “Hayop ka, anong ginagawa mo?!” (You animal, what are you doing?!)
- “Tumigil ka na, hayop!” (Stop it, you beast!)
Pro Tip: It’s strong but not vulgar, making it a versatile insult.

The Playful and Milder Swears

7. Engot (Eng-Ot)

The Silly Fool

“Engot,” meaning “dummy” or “fool,” is a playful insult often used among friends or family.

Example:
- “Ang engot mo naman!” (You’re such a dummy!)
- “Huwag kang engot!” (Don’t be stupid!)
Pro Tip: It’s mild and often used affectionately.

8. Ulol (Oo-Lol)

The Lighthearted Crazy

“Ulol,” meaning “crazy” or “insane,” is a mild insult that’s often used jokingly.

Example:
- “Ulol ka talaga!” (You’re so crazy!)
- “Ano ba ‘yan, ulol!” (What the hell, you’re nuts!)
Pro Tip: It’s lighthearted when said with a smile but can sting in serious contexts.

9. Tanga (Tang-Ah)

The Foolish Blunder

“Tanga,” meaning “stupid” or “idiot,” is a common insult aimed at foolish behavior.

Example:
- “Tanga ka ba?” (Are you stupid?)
- “Huwag kang tanga!” (Don’t be stupid!)
Pro Tip: Often used jokingly but can escalate depending on tone.

10. Susmaryosep (Soos-Mah-Ryo-Sep)

The Polite Exclamation

“Susmaryosep,” a shortened form of “Jesus, Mary, and Joseph,” is a mild expletive used to express surprise, annoyance, or frustration.

Example:
- “Susmaryosep, ano ba ito?” (Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, what is this?)
- “Susmaryosep, ang gulo mo!” (Oh my God, you’re such a mess!)
Pro Tip: It’s mild and often used in family settings.

Honorable Mentions

Tarantado: “Bastard” or “troublemaker.”
Lintik: “Lightning strike” (a curse wishing bad luck).
Gunggong: “Idiot” or “fool.”

Swearing Pro Tips

Cultural Sensitivity: Family insults like “putang ina” are deeply offensive in Filipino culture—use with caution.
Playful vs. Serious: Words like “engot” and “ulol” are often used jokingly, while stronger words like “gago” can escalate conflicts.
Tone Matters: Filipino swear words can be playful or cutting depending on how they’re delivered.

Bonus Word: “Kilig”

Not a swear word, but uniquely Filipino, “kilig” refers to the giddy feeling of excitement, often associated with romance.

Example:
- “Nakakakilig ang love story nila!” (Their love story is so thrilling!)
- “Grabe, kinilig ako sa sinabi niya!” (Wow, I got butterflies from what they said!)

Conclusion

Filipino swearing is as expressive and dynamic as the culture itself. From the fiery “putang ina” to the playful “engot,” these words capture the humor, frustration, and creativity of the Filipino language. Whether you’re teasing a friend or venting your anger, Filipino profanity is your toolkit. Use them wisely—and ingat (take care)!