Cebuano 101 –
Useful Cebuano Words and Phrases  Before hopping on to your trip, you might want to learn local street words and slang, Cebuano typically use on the daily.These will be your ammo in getting into the colorful culture Cebu.  Do know that how we say our words, may sound a little thick and you might think we are getting into a fight. But hell, no! We are just passionate with our conversations, and we are built like that.  Â
Cebuano word: Bai
Translation     : BrotherÂ
So, here’s the thing! We, Cebuanos are a friendly bunch and even though we don’t know each other’s names, we are accustomed to greeting each other “baiâ€. Well, this is usually used by the guys and the ladies address each other as “day or “te†– but’s that going to be another discussion. Typically, it can be used in so many ways and combining it with a few gestures. Saying “Baiâ€, with a slight nod and that means hello or how are you. Then that would either signal just a greeting or a start of a conversation especially with a stranger who you want some information from.   Â
Cebuano: Salamat
Translation   : Thank youÂ
 “Salamat†may not be originally Cebuano but from our national language: Pilipino, but we use too! So, when you do get a chance to say, thank you, use “Salamat†instead. You can amp it up too by saying, “Salamat, Bai†which means, “Thank you, Brotherâ€Â
 Cebuano: Amping
Translation: Take care  Use “Amping†as you would usually do with its meaning and intention! Add “bai†to that and the locals might think you are one of us.  “Amping, Bai!â€Â Â
Cebuano words: O, Dili
Translation: Yes, NoÂ
 Not much to say but these words are used as they are meant to be. Add your own tone to express your intention whether it’s a positive note or otherwise. As always, with “Bai†in it, you will go a long way! “O baiâ€Â There are other Cebuano phrases that you might find useful in your trip. How about going to the restaurant:Â
Cebuano: Bill palihug.
Translation: The bill, please.
 Cebuano: Gigutom na ko.
Translation: I’m hungry.Â
Cebuano: Giuhaw ko.
Translation: I’m thirsty.Â
Cebuano: Busog na ko.
Translation: I’m full.Â
 Another set of Cebuano you want to add to your vocabulary are for when asking for directions:Â
Cebuano: Asa?
Translation: Where? Cebuano: Asa ang (place)?
Translation: Where is (place)?Â
Cebuano: Unsaon pag adto ddto?
Translation: How to go there (or that place)?
 How about when its comes to money matters? Of course, you want to know the basics.Â
 Cebuano: Tagpila
Translation:How much
 Cebuano: Kwarta
Translation: MoneyÂ
Cebuano: Unsa ni?
Translation: What is this?  Â
There is more to learn in the Cebuano language. Sans the grammar and all technicalities, we get by just fine with our day-to-day conversations even with tourists both from other regions in the Philippines or other countries. Although, the majority of the locals speak and understand English but speaking the dialect could never be sweeter! You will surely put a smile and give a pleasant surprise to whoever Cebuano you will meet if you can speak one or two local words.  Â
Ready, bai?Â