apa
/ˈapa/
apa is the Indonesian word for "what".
apa is a question word used to ask for information about something. It is used specifically when the subject of the question is an inanimate object or a concept.
Which one should you use?
While apa means "what", it is used for inanimate objects or concepts, whereas siapa is used to ask "who" regarding people.
How does it change in a sentence?
In many contexts, apa can be placed at the beginning or the end of a sentence without changing the fundamental meaning of the question.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈapa/
Did you know?
- The word apa is used in the phrase apa kabar, which literally translates to 'what news' but is used as the standard greeting for 'how are you'.
- In some Indonesian dialects, repeating the word as apa-apa changes its meaning from a question to 'anything' or 'anything at all' in negative sentences.
- While apa is used for things, if you accidentally use it to ask about a person instead of siapa, you might sound like you are treating that person as a mere object.
Examples in context
- Apa yang saudara maksud?What do you mean, sir/madam?
- Napa kamu gak datang?Why didn't you come?
- Apa ini?What is this?
- Apa rencana kamu besok?What is your plan tomorrow?
- Apa makanan kesukaanmu?What is your favorite food?
Example conversation
Indah and Budi are sitting in a cafe.
- IndahApa yang sedang kamu makan, Budi?What are you eating, Budi?
- BudiSaya makan roti cokelat.I am eating chocolate bread.
- IndahApakah itu enak?Is it delicious?
- BudiYa, ini sangat enak.Yes, this is very delicious.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry apa, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
