Gaining some knowledge of basic Indonesian phrases is always helpful when visiting or communicating with Indonesians. One common word you’ll frequently hear in conversations is “apa,” which translates to “what” in English. In this guide, we’ll explore the formal and informal ways of saying “apa” in Indonesian, without delving too much into regional variations. Whether you’re a beginner learning the language or simply curious about Indonesian expressions, this guide will equip you with the necessary information.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Apa” in Indonesian
When speaking in formal situations or addressing someone of higher social status, it’s important to use appropriate language. Here are some formal equivalents of “apa”:
- Apa – Pronounced as “ah-pah,” this is the straightforward and neutral way to say “what” in formal Indonesian. It’s used in formal conversations, interviews, and official settings.
- Apakah – Pronounced as “ah-pah-kah,” this is the formal version of “apa.” It is commonly used to form questions in formal speech and writing.
- Apa yang – Pronounced as “ah-pah yahng,” this phrase literally means “what that” in English. It is used to refer to specific things or concepts in an elevated manner. For example, “Apa yang saudara maksud?” translates to “What do you mean, sir/madam?”
Informal Ways to Say “Apa” in Indonesian
Informal conversations require a different set of phrases compared to formal situations. Here are some commonly used informal variations of “apa”:
- Ap – Pronounced as “ahp,” this abbreviated form of “apa” is widely used in casual conversations among friends and peers. Its usage is similar to saying “what” in English, without any added formality.
- Apaan – Pronounced as “ah-pahn,” this slang variation of “apa” is typical among Indonesian youth. You will often hear this in casual conversations, social media posts, and informal text messages. For example, “Mau ngapain?” translates to “What are you doing?”
- Napa – Pronounced as “nah-pah,” this is another colloquial variation of “apa.” It is mainly used in informal speech and can be considered somewhat playful or casual. For instance, “Napa kamu gak datang?” means “Why didn’t you come?”
Examples of Usage
Let’s look at some examples to help you further understand the different ways of saying “apa” in Indonesian:
Formal:
– Apa yang menjadi pertanyaan Anda?
– Apakah mereka sudah tiba di sana?
Informal:
– Ap yang lagi kamu baca?
– Apaan sih yang kamu lakukan?
– Napa lu tega gitu, bro?
As you can see, the formal and informal variations can be used interchangeably depending on the context and personal preference. It’s essential to pay attention to the situation and the level of formality required.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve learned about the formal and informal ways to say “apa” in Indonesian. Remember to adapt your language to the appropriate situation, and don’t hesitate to practice your new knowledge with native speakers. The more you engage with the language, the more proficient you will become. With these variations of “apa,” you’ll be able to blend in with locals and have smoother interactions during your time in Indonesia. Selamat belajar!
