Filipino · Greetings & Phrases
kumusta
Hello; how are you?
Beginnerinterjection
Definition
The all-purpose Filipino greeting, from the Spanish cómo está.
Example
Kumusta ka? Mabuti naman ako.
How are you? I am fine.
Etymology
The word 'kumusta' derives from the Spanish greeting '¿Cómo está?' which means 'How are you?'. It reflects the influence of Spanish colonization on the Tagalog language.
How & Where It’s Used
Used primarily in informal settings, 'kumusta' is a common greeting in both spoken and written contexts, typically among friends and family, though it is also used more broadly in social interactions.