tetapi
/təˈtapi/
The English word "but" is translated into Indonesian as tetapi. It is also spelled tapi.
Meaning: except (conj)
Ways to say it
| Indonesian | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| tetapi | /təˈtapi/ (Standard Indonesian) | |
| tapi | /ˈtapi/ (Standard Indonesian) | alternative form |
Both forms are used as conjunctions to connect two contrasting clauses, functioning like the English word "but".
Which one should you use?
tetapi is the full, standard form, while tapi is an alternative spelling used in more casual contexts.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
tetapi is the formal version used in standard Indonesian (Bahasa Baku), formal writing and speeches. tapi is an informal version used in casual conversation and informal writing.
How does it change in a sentence?
tetapi serves as a coordinating conjunction to connect two clauses that present a contrast.
How do you pronounce it?
/təˈtapi/
Did you know?
- The Sanskrit origins of tetapi link the Indonesian language to a vast historical network of philosophical and religious texts across Asia.
- In spoken Indonesian, people often add a filler word like ya after tapi to soften the blow of a disagreement.
- In casual conversation, Indonesians often drop the word tapi entirely and use a rising intonation or a pause to signal a contrast.
Examples in context
- Tapi itu tidak benar!But that's incorrect.This sentence shows how to use the informal tapi to express disagreement.Tatoeba #13720671 by HAGNi, translation #13718993 by frpzzd
- Tetapi dia sangat lucu!But he's so cute!This sentence demonstrates using the formal tetapi to express an observation.Tatoeba #3478376 by lewis, translation #3476787 by Hybrid
- Dia miskin tetapi jujur.He is poor but honest.This sentence illustrates how to use tetapi to link two contrasting qualities of a person.Tatoeba #12828611 by HAGNi, translation #11289202 by carlosalberto
- Saya ingin pergi ke pesta, tapi saya harus menyelesaikan tugas terlebih dahulu.I want to go to the party, but I have to finish my assignment first.
- Saya ingin membeli sepatu baru, tetapi saya tidak punya cukup uang.I want to buy new shoes, but I don't have enough money.
- Saya ingin ikut ke pesta, namun saya tidak dapat menemukan kendaraan.I want to join the party, but I can't find a means of transportation.
- 167 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Adi and Indah are discussing their weekend plans.
- AdiKita bisa pergi Sabtu, tetapi Minggu saya sibuk.We can go on Saturday, but I am busy on Sunday.
- IndahTidak apa-apa, Sabtu juga boleh.That's fine, Saturday works too.
- AdiJam berapa kita berangkat?What time should we leave?
- IndahJam sepuluh pagi saja.Let's just go at ten in the morning.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “but” translations and entries tetapi, tapi, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries tapi, tetapi, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
