The letter “a” has an “ah” sound similar to the “a” in the English word “father. " The letter “e” has an “eh” sound similar to the “e” in the English word “egg. " The letter “i” has an “ih” sound similar to the “i” in the English word “tin. " The letter “o” has an “oh” sound similar to the “o” in the English word “old. " The letter “u” has an “ooh” sound similar to the “u” in the English word “flu. "

There is one letter in the Cebuano alphabet that doesn’t exist in either the Spanish or the English alphabet: the letter “ng. " This letter makes a sound similar to the “ng” in the English word “hung,” although it’s more nasal. The 6 letters that exist in the English alphabet but not in the Cebuano alphabet are “j,” “c,” “q,” “v,” “x,” and “z. " However, these letters are used in words of Spanish or English origin (including the “C” in “Cebuano”). Double “L"s in Cebuano (“ll”) make a “y” sound, similar to Spanish.

For example, the word “Cebuano” has 4 syllables: ceh-boo-ah-noh. Because native speakers often say their words more quickly, it may sound like “ceh-bwah-noh,” but remember — all vowels are pronounced separately.

In some words borrowed from Spanish or English, the stress will be on the last syllable, or on a different syllable, keeping the stress that exists in the origin language. When you see these words written, there will usually be an accent mark (” ´ " or " ` “) over the vowel that’s meant to be stressed.

Maayong buntag (good morning) Maayong hapon (good afternoon) Maayong adlaw diha (good day) Maayong gabii (good evening)

The person will likely respond “Maayo, ikaw?” This means “I’m fine, and you?” Respond “Maayo, sab” (Fine, too) or “Maayo, pod” (Fine, also). [8] X Research source

If you want to ask the person their name, follow up with “Kinsay imong ngalan?” You might also use “Kinsay inyong ngalan” if you’re speaking to someone older than you or in a position of authority and want to be more formal. After the person introduces themselves, you might say “nalipay ko nag nakaila ko nimo,” which means “pleased to meet you. "

Taga-diin ka? (Where are you from?) Unsa imong trabaho? (What is your job?) Pilayedad mo? (How old are you?) Unsa kini? (What is this?) Unsa kana? (What is that?) Say “unsa kadto” to ask “What is that over there?”

Palihug (please) Salamat (thank you) Way sapayan (you’re welcome) Tabi una (excuse me) Pasayloako (I’m sorry) Una pa (I beg your pardon)

Because Cebuano doesn’t have a soft “g” or the letter “j,” the consonant combination “dy” is often substituted for words of Spanish or English origin that include these sounds or letters. For example, “teenager” in Cebuano is “tinedyer” and “allergy” is “alerdyi. " The letter “b” is often substituted for “p” or “v” in words of foreign origin. For example, “grabe” for “grave” and “aktibista” for “activista” (Spanish) or “activist” (English). The letters “ks” are typically substituted for “cc” or “x” in imported words. For example, the word for “accident” in Cebuano is “aksidente. "

For example, if you hear the word “tuba” in Cebuano, you might think the person is referring to the brass wind instrument. However, in Cebuano, this word means “coconut wine. "

Start with 5 to 10 objects, then switch to different objects once you’ve learned those. A good list of vocabulary words is available at http://www. bohol. ph/article123. html?sid=ba341e93152dc3758937969cb5ed91f4, adapted from materials prepared for US Peace Corps volunteers.

While you might pick up some language through passive listening, active listening is better. Sing along with the lyrics or print the lyrics off the internet and read along as the song plays. You might also try translating the lyrics into your native language. This can improve your understanding of the language.

Many people in Cebu, particularly in Cebu City, can speak English rather well. However, if you travel to more rural areas that aren’t frequented by tourists, you might find people are more willing to speak to you in Cebuano. If people want to talk to you in English or Spanish, feel free to let them know that you would rather speak in Cebuano.