Meaning of "bagay-bagay"

Although “bagay-bagay” may be used to mean “objects”, more often we use it to indicate “an assortment of intangible things, e.g., topics, issues, concerns, etc.”. (Because it is a plural term, “mga” always precedes it.) When used for objects, it is usually understood as “miscellaneous things” as compared to just “mga bagay” to mean the “essential or obvious things”. We can also use “bagay” for intangible things, but if the items are problematic, “bagay-bagay” can make them sound less urgent or severe. Anong mga bagay-bagay ang kailangan naming dalhín sa pagpunta natin sa beach sa Linggó? = What things do we need to bring when we go to the beach on Sunday? (“Bagay-bagay” could be understood as the “less important things”). May mga bagay-bagay na dapat tayong pag-usapan. = There are things that we should/must discuss. (“Bagay-bagay” may suggest that the topics are not that critical. “Bagay”, on the other hand, could be taken to mean that the issues are serious.) However, don’t worry about the proper use of either “bagay” or “bagay-bagay” since usually context and/or body language can help in providing the intended meaning.

Salamat! This is so so helpful. Is there any use case where "bagay-bagay" is used without "mga" preceding it? Can it be used as more of a descriptor or adjective? Or is it only used as a plural noun?

@mvertulfo I can't think of a case where that is possible. The repetition of the word "bagay" makes it plural and the "mga" will then be grammatically required. Its singular is "bagay". If you'd replace "mga bagay-bagay" with "bagay" in the examples I gave you earlier, they would be understood clearly as meaning "a single thing".No, it is used only as a plural noun.