Learn Hardcore Filipino: Hindi ako pagod ngayon.

In Filipino, the negation word hindi typically appears before the pronoun when negating a verb or adjective. So you see hindi first, followed by ako (meaning "I"), and then the adjective pagod.

How do I know when to use hindi versus other negation words like wala?

Use hindi to negate verbs or adjectives, like hindi ako pagod ("I am not tired"). Use wala to express absence or non-existence, such as wala akong pera ("I don't have money").

Is the word ngayon optional in this sentence?

Yes. You can say hindi ako pagod without ngayon, and it will just mean "I am not tired." Adding ngayon means "I am not tired right now/today," which is more specific.

Can I say pagod ako instead of ako ay pagod in everyday conversation?

Yes. Both are grammatically correct, but pagod ako is more common and sounds natural to everyday Filipino speech. Saying ako ay pagod is still correct but can sound more formal or literary.

Does the placement of ako matter if I want to say "I am not tired"?