5 Resources to Learn Tagalog for Free
Photo by Lyman Hansel Gerona on Unsplash
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Tagalog.com
Website with resources including a Tagalog/English dictionary, a reader tool similar to LingQ, SRS decks, verb conjugation games, and more.
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Penlab
Filipino comics in Tagalog and English
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Pinoy Abroad
Youtube playlist for Tagalog documentary series hosted on the GMA news network’s youtube channel.
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TAGALOG AT NIU
Resources for both learners and teachers of Tagalog.
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Learning Tagalog
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About the Tagalog Language
Tagalog is an Austronesian language spoken by approximately 70 million people as a first language in the Philippines. It is the primary language of the Tagalog people and serves as the basis for the national language of the Philippines, Filipino.
The origins of Tagalog can be traced back to the Malayo-Polynesian language family, which includes other Philippine languages and is part of the larger Austronesian language family. Tagalog has been influenced by various languages throughout its history, including Spanish, due to centuries of Spanish colonization.
Tagalog is primarily spoken in the Philippines, particularly in the regions of Central Luzon and the National Capital Region, where Manila, the capital city, is located. It is also spoken by Filipino communities around the world, especially in countries with a significant Filipino diaspora such as the United States, Canada, and the United Arab Emirates.
One interesting aspect of the Tagalog language is its complex verbal system. Verbs can undergo various affixation processes to indicate tense, aspect, mood, and voice, resulting in a rich array of verb forms. Additionally, Tagalog is known for its extensive use of pronouns to convey social relationships and respect.
Tagalog has a rich literary tradition, with notable works by renowned Filipino writers like Jose Rizal and Nick Joaquin. It has also been used as a medium of expression in various art forms, including music and film.
Efforts have been made to standardize Tagalog and promote its use as the national language of the Philippines. The development of Filipino, which is based on Tagalog, aims to foster national unity and communication among the diverse ethnic groups in the country.
Tagalog continues to evolve and adapt to contemporary usage, incorporating new vocabulary and expressions from other languages. It plays a vital role in shaping Filipino culture, identity, and national discourse.