Rahajeng tengai
Rahajeng tengai is how you say good afternoon in Balinese.
This phrase is a greeting used specifically during the afternoon hours.
Meaning: greeting said in the afternoon (phrase)
Did you know?
- While Rahajeng tengai is the standard greeting, you will often hear the word Om Swastiastu used as a universal greeting regardless of the time of day. This phrase is a prayer for peace and wellbeing and is deeply tied to the Balinese Hindu faith.
- In Bali, greetings are often accompanied by a slight bow or the Sembah gesture, where the palms are pressed together in front of the chest. This physical gesture is as important as the spoken words of the greeting.
- Unlike English, where 'good afternoon' is a common polite opener, Balinese speakers in rural villages may prefer to ask sampun ngajeng? which means 'have you eaten yet?' as a primary way of showing care.
Examples in context
- Rahajeng tengai.Good afternoon.
- Rahajeng tengai, Bapak.Good afternoon, Sir.
- Rahajeng tengai buat ida dane sareng sami.Good afternoon to everyone.
Example conversation
Two neighbors meet on a sunny street in the afternoon.
- KadekRahajeng tengai, Made.Good afternoon, Made.
- MadeRahajeng tengai, Kadek.Good afternoon, Kadek.
- KadekKadi napi kabare?How are you?
- MadeBecik-becik manten.Just fine.
