Filipino or Phillipino – Which is Correct?
When it comes to the correct spelling of the nationality, language, and people of the Philippines, there seems to be some confusion between “Filipino” and “Phillipino.” So, which one is correct? As an IELTS tutor, I am here to shed some light on this matter and provide a clear answer.
The correct term to refer to the people, language, and nationality of the Philippines is “Filipino.” This is the widely recognized and accepted spelling by linguists, grammarians, and the Philippine government itself. It is important to note that “Phillipino” is not considered as a correct spelling in standard English.
The use of the term “Filipino” dates back to the 19th century, when the Philippines was under Spanish colonial rule. It derived from the Spanish name “Filipinas,” which was given to the archipelago to honor King Philip II of Spain. The term “Filipino” was then used to refer to the people of the Philippines and their culture.
To further emphasize the correctness of “Filipino,” it is worth noting that the Oxford English Dictionary, one of the most authoritative sources on the English language, solely recognizes the spelling “Filipino.” This reinforces the widespread usage of this term in both written and spoken English.
Furthermore, the Philippine government itself uses “Filipino” in official documents, such as passports and legal papers. This reaffirms its status as the preferred spelling by the very country it represents.
Now, let’s learn some examples to solidify our understanding. If you were to describe the language spoken in the Philippines, you would say it is called “Filipino.” For instance, “Tagalog is the base language of Filipino.” Similarly, when referring to the people of the Philippines, you would use “Filipino.” For example, “The Filipino people are known for their warm hospitality.”
On the other hand, if you were to use the term “Phillipino,” you would be using an incorrect spelling that does not adhere to standard English usage. This misspelling is understandable as it may arise from the way the Filipino accent pronounces the word “Filipino,” making it sound like “Phillipino.” However, in written English, it is crucial to use the correct form, “Filipino.”
In conclusion, the correct spelling to refer to the people, language, and nationality of the Philippines is “Filipino.” It is the widely recognized and accepted term used by linguists, grammarians, the Philippine government, and is documented in authoritative sources such as the Oxford English Dictionary. So, let us confidently embrace the correct spelling and continue to appreciate the rich culture and heritage of the Filipino people.