ayos

Ayos is a word in Filipino languages, most commonly Tagalog, that functions as both an adjective and an interjection. As an adjective, ayos describes something that is well arranged, proper, neat, or good. As an interjection, ayos expresses approval, satisfaction, or readiness, roughly equivalent to “okay,” “all right,” or “done.” In everyday speech, it appears in phrases such as ayos lang (it’s fine), ayos na (it’s okay now or it’s ready), and ayusin (to fix or arrange).

Origins and usage context: The term is well established in Philippine languages with long-standing influence from Spanish and local linguistic development. While the exact historical etymology is not clearly documented, ayos has become a staple in the Filipino lexicon and is widely understood across regions and generations. The sense of order implicit in ayos underpins common expressions about condition, readiness, and quality.

Relation to other terms: In formal or written Filipino, more formal synonyms such as maayos (proper, well-organized) or tama (correct) may be used, but ayos remains prevalent in casual speech and popular culture. The related verb ayusin (“to fix” or “to arrange”) supports the underlying idea of making something orderly.

Examples of usage: Ayos ang pagkakaayos ng kusina. (The kitchen is neatly arranged.) Ayos lang ako. (I’m fine.) Ayos na ang lahat. (Everything is ready/okay.)