Understanding how to translate common English words into Tagalog is important for effective communication, especially for those learning the language or interacting with Filipino speakers. One such word is ‘by,’ which has multiple uses in English and can be translated differently depending on the context. The word ‘by’ functions as a preposition, adverb, and sometimes even a noun, so knowing its various Tagalog translations and usages helps in creating accurate and meaningful sentences. This topic explores the meaning of ‘by,’ how it is translated into Tagalog, and examples to illustrate its use in everyday language.
Different Meanings of ‘By’ in English
Before diving into the Tagalog translations, it’s crucial to understand the different meanings and functions of ‘by’ in English. ‘By’ can indicate:
- Agent or doer of an action: The book was written by Maria.
- Means or method: Travel by car.
- Proximity or location: Stand by the door.
- Time reference: Finish it by Monday.
- Measurement or rate: Sold by the dozen.
Each of these uses requires different translations in Tagalog, reflecting the richness and flexibility of both languages.
Tagalog Translations of ‘By’
In Tagalog, there is no single word that translates to ‘by’ in all contexts. Instead, different prepositions and phrases convey the meaning depending on the sentence. Here are some of the common Tagalog words and phrases used to translate ‘by’:
- Ni / Nina: Used to indicate the agent or doer of an action, similar to ‘by’ when naming a person.
- Sa pamamagitan ng: Literally means ‘through the means of’ and is used for methods or ways of doing something.
- Sa tabi ng / Katabi ng: Used to express location or proximity, meaning ‘by the side of’ or ‘next to.’
- Bago ang / Sa oras ng: Used for time references, translating to ‘before’ or ‘by’ a certain time.
- Bawat: Used for rate or measurement, similar to ‘by’ when referring to units or quantities.
Using ‘By’ to Indicate the Agent of an Action
One of the most common uses of ‘by’ is to show who performed an action. In English, this often appears in passive sentences. In Tagalog, the prepositions ‘ni’ (singular) and ‘nina’ (plural) are used for this purpose.
- English: The letter was written by Juan.
Tagalog: Ang liham ay isinulat ni Juan. - English: The report was prepared by the team.
Tagalog: Ang ulat ay inihanda nina Maria at Jose.
Here, ‘ni’ and ‘nina’ function similarly to ‘by’ to indicate who is responsible for the action.
Expressing Means or Method
When ‘by’ refers to how something is done or the method used, Tagalog uses the phrase ‘sa pamamagitan ng,’ which translates to ‘through the means of.’ This phrase clearly indicates the manner or method by which something happens.
- English: He traveled by car.
Tagalog: Naglakbay siya sa pamamagitan ng kotse. - English: Learn English by listening to songs.
Tagalog: Matuto ng Ingles sa pamamagitan ng pakikinig sa mga kanta.
This phrase is versatile and commonly used when explaining methods, tools, or ways to accomplish tasks.
Indicating Location or Proximity
When ‘by’ is used to describe location, such as ‘stand by the door,’ Tagalog uses phrases like ‘sa tabi ng’ or ‘katabi ng,’ which mean ‘beside’ or ‘next to.’
- English: Please wait by the entrance.
Tagalog: Pakiusap, maghintay ka sa tabi ng pasukan. - English: The store is by the park.
Tagalog: Ang tindahan ay katabi ng parke.
These phrases help specify the position of something relative to another object or place.
Using ‘By’ to Refer to Time
‘By’ is often used to express a deadline or a specific time frame within which something must happen. In Tagalog, this concept is conveyed with phrases like ‘bago ang’ (before) or ‘sa oras ng’ (at the time of).
- English: Finish the work by Friday.
Tagalog: Tapusin ang trabaho bago ang Biyernes. - English: She must arrive by noon.
Tagalog: Dapat siyang dumating sa oras ng tanghali.
These expressions clearly communicate deadlines or specific times, which is vital for planning and scheduling.
Expressing Measurement or Rate
When ‘by’ indicates a measurement or rate, such as ‘sold by the dozen,’ Tagalog uses the word ‘bawat’ to mean ‘each’ or ‘per.’
- English: Eggs are sold by the dozen.
Tagalog: Ang mga itlog ay binebenta bawat dosena. - English: The shop charges by the hour.
Tagalog: Nagcha-charge ang tindahan bawat oras.
This use of ‘bawat’ is essential in commercial or transactional contexts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid using ‘ni’ or ‘nina’ when referring to inanimate objects or methods; use ‘sa pamamagitan ng’ instead.
- Do not confuse ‘sa tabi ng’ (beside) with ‘sa pamamagitan ng’ (by means of).
- For time expressions, do not directly translate ‘by’ as ‘sa,’ but use ‘bago ang’ or ‘sa oras ng’ for clarity.
Examples of ‘By’ in Tagalog Sentences
- Ang kwento ay isinulat ni Pedro. (The story was written by Pedro.)
- Naglakbay kami sa pamamagitan ng barko. (We traveled by ship.)
- Maghintay ka sa tabi ng pinto. (Wait by the door.)
- Tapusin mo ang proyekto bago ang Lunes. (Finish the project by Monday.)
- Ibebenta ang mga prutas bawat kilo. (The fruits will be sold by the kilo.)
The English word ‘by’ is versatile and plays several important roles in sentences. Translating ‘by’ into Tagalog requires understanding the context because the language uses different words and phrases depending on the function of ‘by.’ Whether indicating an agent with ‘ni’ or ‘nina,’ expressing means through ‘sa pamamagitan ng,’ describing location with ‘sa tabi ng,’ specifying time using ‘bago ang,’ or denoting measurement with ‘bawat,’ each translation captures a unique aspect of ‘by.’ Mastering these uses enhances communication skills and makes learning Tagalog more precise and meaningful.