What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of aku (I), sayang (love/affection), kamu (you) and ibu (mother).
Which one should you use?
The term sayang is used for affection and care, whereas cinta is a much stronger, more romantic form of love.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Using saya instead of aku makes the expression sound more formal and polite, though less intimate. For a very formal and deep expression, you can say Saya sangat menyayangi Anda, Bu, and for a standard formal version, you can use Saya mencintaimu, Ibu. In casual or playful settings, you might use more informal versions like Aku cinta kamu, Ma. or the playful expression Sayang Mama banget, lho!
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈaku ˈsajaŋ ˈkamu ˈibu/
When do people say it?
The word ibu is the standard term for mother and can also be used as a respectful title for an older woman or a woman in a position of authority.
Did you know?
- In traditional Indonesian culture, children often express love for their parents through 'bakti' or acts of service rather than by saying aku sayang kamu.
- Depending on the dialect or historical root, sayang may have also been borrowed from an Old Javanese word for 'coppersmith'.
- The word sayang is a linguistic oddity that can mean 'love' but also expresses 'what a pity' or 'it is a shame'.
Examples in context
- Aku sayang kamu, ibu, selalu.I love you, mom, always.
Example conversation
Maya is hugging her mother before going to school.
- MayaAku sayang kamu, ibu.I love you, mom.
- IbuIbu juga sayang Maya.Mom loves Maya too.
- MayaAku berangkat sekarang ya.I'm leaving now, okay?
- IbuHati-hati di jalan, sayang.Be careful on the road, dear.
