Learning a new language opens doors to understanding a culture and its people. Indonesian is no exception, and as a language learner, grasping some basic expressions can make a significant difference in your communication skills. Here are some essential Indonesian phrases along with their definitions and example sentences to get you started.
Terima kasih – This phrase means “thank you.” It’s a polite way to express gratitude and is widely used in everyday interactions.
Saya mau ucapkan terima kasih atas bantuannya.
Sama-sama – This is the common response to “terima kasih” and it means “you’re welcome.”
A: Terima kasih atas hadiahnya! B: Sama-sama!
Selamat pagi – This is how you say “good morning” in Indonesian. It’s a friendly greeting to use when you meet someone in the morning.
Selamat pagi! Sudah sarapan belum?
Selamat siang – When it’s past noon and up until around 3 p.m., you would use “selamat siang,” which means “good afternoon.”
Selamat siang, boleh saya pesan satu kopi, tolong?
Selamat sore – As the day progresses, “selamat sore,” which means “good evening,” is the expression to use.
Selamat sore, apa kabar?
Selamat malam – To say “good night,” use “selamat malam.” It’s the phrase you would say when parting ways in the evening or before going to bed.
Sudah larut, saya harus pulang. Selamat malam!
Apa kabar? – This means “how are you?” It’s a common question to start a conversation and show concern for the person you’re speaking to.
Hai, lama tidak bertemu, apa kabar?
Baik-baik saja – The standard response to “apa kabar?” which means “I’m fine” or “I’m good.”
A: Apa kabar? B: Baik-baik saja, terima kasih.
Mohon maaf – This term means “excuse me” or “I’m sorry.” It’s used to apologize or to get someone’s attention.
Mohon maaf, Bisakah anda mengulanginya?
Tolong – This word means “please” or “help.” Use it when asking for assistance or when you politely request something.
Tolong buka pintunya.
Ya – It simply means “yes.” Use it to affirm or agree with something.
A: Apakah kamu akan datang besok? B: Ya, saya akan datang.
Tidak – This word is the opposite of “ya” and means “no.” It can be used to decline an offer or disagree.
A: Apakah kamu suka durian? B: Tidak, saya tidak suka durian.
Silakan – Meaning “go ahead” or “please,” it’s used to invite someone to proceed with an action.
Silakan masuk dan duduk.
Permisi – Similar to “mohon maaf,” it means “excuse me.” Use it when you need to pass by someone or need a moment of their time.
Permisi, saya perlu lewat.
Acquainting yourself with these basic expressions will enhance your ability to navigate simple conversations in Indonesian. As with any language, practice is key to fluency, so don’t hesitate to use these phrases as often as you can. Selamat belajar! (Happy learning!)
