Learning a new language encompasses more than just mastering grammar and vocabulary—it’s also about understanding the culture and how people relate to each other. In Indonesian culture, family and relationships play a pivotal role. Here is an extensive list of vocabulary related to family and relationships in the Indonesian language (Bahasa Indonesia), complete with definitions and examples that will help you discuss your loved ones and interact socially with greater fluency.

Keluarga – Family
Keluarga is the general term for family, encompassing the nuclear family as well as extended family members.
Saya akan mengunjungi keluarga saya akhir pekan ini.

Ayah – Father
Ayah means father, an affectionate term for one’s dad.
Ayah saya adalah pahlawan saya.

Ibu – Mother
Ibu is the word for mother and shows respect and affection.
Ibu saya mengajari saya banyak hal penting dalam hidup.

Adik – Younger Sibling
Adik refers to a younger sibling, either brother or sister.
Adik saya sedang belajar untuk ujian sekolahnya.

Kakak – Older Sibling
Kakak signifies an older sibling and is used regardless of gender.
Kakak saya bekerja sebagai dokter.

Anak – Child
Anak is the term for child or children, made specific by context.
Anak saya suka bermain sepak bola.

Suami – Husband
Suami refers to a husband or spouse in a male role.
Suami saya adalah seorang guru matematika.

Istri – Wife
Istri means wife, indicating a married partner in a female role.
Istri saya pandai memasak.

Kakek – Grandfather
Kakek is the word for grandfather on either parent’s side.
Kakek saya masih kuat meskipun usianya sudah 80 tahun.

Nenek – Grandmother
Nenek means grandmother, a caring figure in one’s extended family.
Saya suka kue yang dibuat oleh nenek saya.

Cucu – Grandchild
Cucu denotes a grandchild, whether grandson or granddaughter.
Cucu-cucu itu sering berkunjung setiap liburan.

Paman – Uncle
Paman can be used to refer to an uncle, the brother of one’s father or mother.
Paman saya baru saja datang dari luar negeri.

Bibi – Aunt
Bibi signifies an aunt, the sister of one’s father or mother.
Bibi saya adalah seorang penulis yang terkenal.

Sepupu – Cousin
Sepupu is the word for cousin, children of one’s uncle or aunt.
Saya dan sepupu saya memiliki hobi yang sama yaitu berenang.

Menantu – Son-in-law/Daughter-in-law
Menantu refers to a son-in-law or daughter-in-law, the spouse of one’s child.
Menantu perempuan saya sangat baik dan perhatian.

Mertua – Father-in-law/Mother-in-law
Mertua denotes one’s father-in-law or mother-in-law, the parents of one’s spouse.
Mertua saya sering membantu kami mengurus anak-anak.

Keponakan – Niece/Nephew
Keponakan is a term used for both niece and nephew, children of one’s siblings.
Keponakan saya yang berumur 5 tahun sangat lucu.

These words represent the important concept of family and the various relationships within Indonesian culture, providing you with the foundation to discuss and share about your own family and relationships in Bahasa Indonesia. As in any language, practicing these words in context will help with retention and fluency, so be sure to use them when conversing with native speakers or writing in Indonesian. Selamat belajar! (Happy learning!)