Tools play a big role in Filipino daily life — from simple household repairs to carpentry, gardening, and community projects. Learning the Tagalog names of common tools helps you communicate better with local craftsmen, shop confidently in hardware stores, and understand the language used in Filipino homes.
Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast, a traveler, or teaching your kids Tagalog vocabulary, this guide gives you the essential words you need.
Understanding Tools in Tagalog
The general term for tools is “Mga Gamit sa Pagkukumpuni”, which means tools used for fixing or repairing. You’ll hear these words in workshops, construction sites, and even during everyday household tasks.
Basic Tools (Mga Pangunahing Kasangkapan)
These are the tools you’ll commonly find in Filipino homes and hardware stores:
- Pamutol ng Kable – Wire cutter
- Plays – Pliers
- Tornilyo – Screw
- Barena – Drill
- Pako – Nail
Hand Tools (Mga Kasangkapang Kamay)
Used for gardening, repairs, and general home maintenance:
- Pala – Shovel
- Liyabe – Wrench
- Distornilyador – Screwdriver
- Martilyo – Hammer
- Kalaykay – Rake
- Metrong Panukat – Tape measure
Woodworking Tools (Mga Kasangkapan sa Pagkakarpintero)
Perfect for carpentry, crafting, and building projects:
- Palakol – Axe
- Lagari – Saw
- Pait – Chisel
- Kasingay – Clamp
- Katam – Plane
Measuring and Safety Tools (Mga Kasangkapan sa Pagsukat at Kaligtasan)
Safety and accuracy are essential in any project:
- Salaming Pangkaligtasan – Safety glasses
- Gunting – Scissors
- Kutsilyo – Knife
- Akyatan – Ladder
Common Tool Phrases in Tagalog
Here are practical sentences you can use when working with tools or speaking with local craftsmen:
- “Gamitin ang martilyo sa pagpukpok ng pako.”
Use a hammer to drive a nail. - “Ang lagari ay gamit sa pagputol ng kahoy.”
A saw is used to cut wood. - “Ang pait ay para sa paglilok ng kahoy.”
The chisel is for carving wood. - “Magsuot ng salaming pangkaligtasan para sa proteksyon ng mata.”
Wear safety glasses for eye protection.
Tips for Learning Tool Names in Tagalog
- Practice using these words when discussing home repairs or DIY projects.
- Create flashcards to help you memorize English–Tagalog tool names.
- Use Tagalog terms when shopping for tools in the Philippines.
- Watch Filipino DIY or home improvement videos to hear the vocabulary in context.
The more you use these words, the more natural they’ll feel.
Conclusion
Learning Tagalog names for common tools is incredibly useful for anyone working on home projects or communicating with Filipino craftsmen. These words help you navigate hardware stores, understand instructions, and appreciate the craftsmanship that’s deeply rooted in Filipino culture. With consistent practice, you’ll feel more confident using these terms in everyday situations.