Bahay:
* Literal meaning: Refers to the physical structure of the house, the building itself.
* Focus: More on the physical aspect, the materials, the design, the location.
* Example: "Ang bahay namin ay gawa sa kahoy." (Our house is made of wood.)
Tahanan:
* Figurative meaning: Refers to the house as a place of dwelling, a home, a place of comfort and belonging.
* Focus: More on the emotional aspect, the sense of family, warmth, and security.
* Example: "Ang tahanan namin ay puno ng pagmamahal." (Our home is full of love.)
In summary:
* Bahay emphasizes the physical structure of the house.
* Tahanan emphasizes the emotional significance of the house.
While they can be used interchangeably in some contexts, "tahanan" often carries a stronger emotional weight and is used when talking about the feelings associated with home.