Manila vs. Manilla — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Maham Liaqat — Updated on April 1, 2024
Manila refers to the capital city of the Philippines, known for its rich history and cultural heritage, while Manilla is an alternative spelling for a traditional African bracelet or money form.
Difference Between Manila and Manilla
Table of Contents
ADVERTISEMENT
Key Differences
Manila, the capital city of the Philippines, is a bustling metropolis that blends Spanish colonial architecture with modern skyscrapers. It serves as the country's political, economic, and cultural center. On the other hand, Manilla, often spelled as "manila" in some contexts, refers to a type of metal bracelet used historically in West Africa as a form of currency and symbol of wealth.
While Manila is significant for its historical landmarks, such as the walled city of Intramuros, Manilla bracelets were important in trade networks, particularly in the pre-colonial and colonial periods of Africa. These bracelets were not only used as money but also played roles in social and ritual contexts.
The term "Manila" can also refer to Manila hemp, a type of fiber obtained from the abacá plant, which is native to the Philippines and was once a major export product. This contrasts with Manilla, which strictly pertains to the physical object used for trade and adornment.
Understanding the distinction between Manila and Manilla underscores the difference between a geographical location noted for its historical and cultural significance and an object that served as a medium of exchange and social status in African societies.
In contemporary times, the relevance of Manila continues as it evolves into a global city, whereas Manillas have become collector's items or historical artifacts, symbolizing an interesting aspect of African economic history.
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Definition
Capital city of the Philippines.
A traditional African bracelet or currency.
Significance
Political, economic, cultural hub.
Historical form of money and adornment.
Context
Geographical location.
Object used in trade and social contexts.
Historical Role
Center of colonial and modern Philippines.
Used in trade networks in West Africa.
Contemporary Relevance
Continues to grow as a global city.
Primarily of historical or collectible interest.
Compare with Definitions
Manila
The capital city of the Philippines, known for its rich history and vibrant culture.
Manila, with its mix of old and new, attracts tourists from all over the world.
Manilla
A traditional form of currency made of metal, used in West Africa.
Manillas were once a common form of money in Nigerian markets.
Manila
Also refers to a type of fiber from the abacá plant.
Manila hemp is used in making ropes and other products.
Manilla
Now considered a collector's item or historical artifact.
He collects manillas as part of his interest in African economic history.
Manila
Symbolizes the historical and cultural heart of the Philippines.
The historical landmarks in Manila tell the story of the country's past.
Manilla
Served as a symbol of wealth and status.
Owning many manillas was a sign of wealth in some African societies.
Manila
Known for its diverse architectural styles and landmarks.
From Intramuros to modern skyscrapers, Manila showcases architectural diversity.
Manilla
Used in trade and ceremonial exchanges.
Manillas were often used in dowry negotiations.
Manila
A key economic and political center in Southeast Asia.
Manila hosts several international conferences and events.
Manilla
Represents a unique form of monetary system.
Manillas remind us of the diverse monetary systems that have existed globally.
Manila
Manila ( mə-NIH-lə, Spanish: [ma'nila]; Filipino: Maynila, pronounced [majˈnilaʔ]), officially the City of Manila (Filipino: Lungsod ng Maynila, locally [luŋˈsod nɐŋ majˈnilaʔ]), is the capital of the Philippines, and its second most populous city. It is highly urbanized and as of 2019 was the world's most densely populated city proper.
Manilla
Variant of manila.
Manila
Often Manila or Manilla A cigar or cheroot made in Manila.
Manilla
A penannular armlet, mostly in bronze, copper or gold, which served as a form of money or barter coinage amongst certain West African peoples.
Manila
See abaca.
Manilla
Alternative spelling of manila
Manila
Manila paper.
Manilla
See manila, manila hemp, manila paper.
Manila
A light yellow brown.
Manilla
A ring worn upon the arm or leg as an ornament, especially among the tribes of Africa.
Manila
Made of manila paper or material like it.
A manila envelope
Manilla
A piece of copper of the shape of a horseshoe, used as money by certain tribes of the west coast of Africa.
Manila
(color) Yellow-brown; colored like manila paper.
Manilla
Same as Manila.
Manila
Fiber made from abaca (Manila hemp), used to make ropes and manila paper.
Manilla
A strong paper or thin cardboard with a smooth light brown finish made from e.g. Manila hemp
Manila
(color) The yellow-brown colour of manila.
Manila
Of or pertaining to Manila or Manilla, the capital of the Philippine Islands; made in, or exported from, that city.
Manila
Manila paper or the color of manila papaer.
Manila
A strong paper or thin cardboard with a smooth light brown finish made from e.g. Manila hemp
Manila
The capital and largest city of the Philippines; located on southern Luzon
Common Curiosities
What is Manila known for?
Manila is known for its historical significance, cultural heritage, and role as the capital of the Philippines.
Are Manillas still used today?
Manillas are no longer used as currency but are collected as historical artifacts or used in cultural representations.
Can the term "Manila" refer to something other than the city?
Yes, "Manila" can also refer to Manila hemp, a fiber obtained from the abacá plant, important in the maritime and handicraft industries.
What makes Manila a key destination in Southeast Asia?
Manila's blend of historical landmarks, cultural diversity, and economic importance makes it a key destination in Southeast Asia.
What was the purpose of Manilla bracelets?
Manilla bracelets served as a form of currency, adornment, and symbol of wealth in West African societies.
What architectural styles can be found in Manila?
In Manila, one can find a range of architectural styles from Spanish colonial buildings in Intramuros to modern skyscrapers and shopping malls.
How does the significance of Manila and Manilla differ in a global context?
Manila holds ongoing significance as a dynamic urban center, while Manillas are of historical interest, reflecting the economic and social practices of past African societies.
How did Manillas contribute to the African economy?
Manillas facilitated trade, served as dowry in marriages, and symbolized wealth, playing a crucial role in the economic and social systems of West African societies.
What are the contemporary uses of Manila hemp?
Manila hemp is used in the manufacture of ropes, textiles, and various handicrafts, showcasing its versatility and economic value.
What is the historical significance of Manillas in today's society?
Manillas serve as reminders of the complex history of trade, currency, and social practices in Africa, offering insights into the continent's economic past.
Share Your Discovery
Previous Comparison
Rejuvenize vs. Rejuvenate
Next Comparison
Georgette vs. ChiffonAuthor Spotlight
Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
