A native speaker is not exempt from making mistakes, especially when it comes to grammar. This can be observed in the case of using “nang” in Tagalog. Considering that there are five rules of using nang alone, the dilemma is quite understandable.
The main issue is: that nang is almost always confused with ng and vice versa. Orally, it’s fine because both particles have the same pronunciation. But in writing, everything gets tricky.
But not to worry, this article aims to parse through the nuances of using nang and help you construct grammatically correct sentences. Let’s tackle each rule, shall we?
1. As an Adverb of Time
An adverb is a word that modifies or describes a verb, an adjective, another adverb, or even an entire sentence. It typically provides more detail about how, when, where, or to what extent an action is performed. An adverb of time specifically describes when, how long, and how often an action happens.
Nang as an adverb of time is used to refer to a circumstance of a time in the past. It’s like a shortened version of noong and, thus, can be roughly translated to “when” or “at that (time).”
Examples:
| Tagalog | English |
|---|---|
Aalis na sana ako nang biglang dumating si Sarah. | I was about to leave when Sarah suddenly arrived. |
Maaga akong natulog nang Sabadong iyon. | I went to bed early that Saturday. |
2. As an Adverb of Manner
An adverb of manner describes how an action is done or how something happens.
Nang used as an adverb of manner is similar to adding “-ly” to an adjective in English.
Examples:
| Tagalog | English |
|---|---|
Kumain nang mabilis si Noah. | Noah is eating quickly. |
Huminga sila nang malalim. | They breathed in deeply. |
3. As a Conjunction
A conjunction is a word that is used to connect sentences, clauses, or words.
Nang as a conjunction is used to indicate purpose. When used in a sentence, it can be roughly translated into “in order to” or “so that”.
Examples:
| Tagalog | English |
|---|---|
Matulog ka na nang magising ka ng maaga. | Sleep now so that you can wake up early. |
Tumakbo ako nang maabutan ko ang tren. | I ran in order to catch the train. |
4. As a Ligature
A ligature is a word used to connect an adjective to a noun and vice versa.
Nang is used as a ligature when words are being repeated to indicate an action being repeated. It roughly translates to “keeps/keep on + action”.
Examples:
| Tagalog | English |
|---|---|
Tahol nang tahol ang aso ng aming kapitbahay. | Our neighbor’s dog keeps on barking. |
Parami nang parami ang binibiling pagkain ni Sarah. | Sarah keeps buying more and more food. |
5. A Combination of “Na” and “Ng”
Na is an enclitic particle that is used to connect two words.
Na can have different meanings depending on how it is used. However, when the ligature ng is added, it can be roughly translated into “already” or “now”.
Ligatures, or pang-angkop, help connect an adjective to a noun and vice versa. These ligatures are ng, g, and na. Ng is added when the word ends in a vowel.
Examples:
| Tagalog | English |
|---|---|
Matagal nang nandito si Alexis. | Alexis has been here already for a while now. |
Gusto ko nang tikman ang sorbetes na iyon. | I want to taste that ice cream now. |
One Step At A Time
Nang, as small a word as it is, is an essential part of sentence construction. Besides connecting words, it can add a lot of flavor to a sentence, enhancing its overall meaning. Understanding when and how to use it correctly is key to improving your fluency and avoiding common mistakes.
To get a more in-depth lesson on the use of nang, check out Turong Wika.
Turong Wika is a language learning app centered on teaching conversational Tagalog. From simple vocabulary to sentence construction, the app has it all. The lessons are simple and fun, ensuring better understanding and engagement throughout.
Tap on the Cheat Sheet feature, when you just want to refresh your memory of the lessons without having to answer questions. The Practice feature, meanwhile, is where you can test what you’ve learned. Just choose a topic and the number of items you want to answer, then you’re set!
Avoid these common pitfalls. Scan the code below to download the app now!
Avoid these common pitfalls. Click on the button below to download the app now!
