pag-

Instruments and Places with Pag-

Level 3

Pag- forms tool and material expressions, with pinag- for completed instrumental use.

How It Works

Instrument-focus pag- combines with a suitable base to select what someone uses for an action. Instruments include materials as well as tools. The user appears as a named actor or a genitive actor pronoun; the selected implement receives central marking. Pronouns identify person and number, without gender agreement with the implement.

The illustrated aspect pattern uses pag- for contemplated action, pinag- for completed action, and CVC base copying with pag- for ongoing action. Thus pagsursurat expresses ongoing use for writing. In a noun phrase, pagsurat can name a writing implement. Short pronouns attach in modern spelling.

Compare pagbayad, selecting payment means, with pagbayadan, identifying a payment place. Place formation belongs to pag-...-an. Some bases select an instrument with i-; some allow either prefix. Learn the lexical choice. Causative pag- is another use, identified through the complete verb and its participants.

Examples (3)

  1. Pagpunasmi daytoy lupot.

    We, excluding you, will use this cloth for wiping.

    The cloth is selected; attached -mi identifies its users.

  2. Pinagdait ni Teresa ti makina idi rabii.

    Teresa used the machine for sewing last night.

    Pinag- marks completed instrumental use; the machine is selected.

  3. Pagsursuratda dagiti bolpen.

    They are using the pens for writing.

    Sur- copying marks ongoing use; attached -da identifies the users.

How It Connects

Tap a pattern to see what it builds on and what it leads to.

pag-Level 3Instruments and Places with Pag-

Learn This First

Pag- can select the tool or material used for an action.