mi
/ˈmi/
The English word noodle is translated into Indonesian as mi. Wiktionary also lists mie.
Meaning: string or flat strip of pasta or other dough (noun)
Ways to say it
| Indonesian | IPA |
|---|---|
| mi | /ˈmi/ (Standard Indonesian) |
| mie | /ˈmi/ (Standard Indonesian) |
This noun refers to a string or flat strip of pasta or other dough. A very common way to use this word is in the phrase mi goreng, which refers to Indonesian fried noodles.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The spelling mie is a common informal or non-standard spelling used in everyday writing and on menus.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈmi/
Did you know?
- The Indonesian word mi is actually a loanword from the Hokkien Chinese dialect, specifically from the word mī.
- In Indonesia, mi goreng is often served with a side of kerupuk or shrimp crackers to provide a crunch that contrasts with the soft texture of the noodles.
- While the word mi is used broadly, certain specific types of noodles are identified by their texture or preparation, such as bihun for rice vermicelli.
Examples in context
- Pakai mie apa untuk hidangan ini?What type of noodle should I use for this dish?
- Saya suka mie instan rasa ayam.I like chicken-flavored instant noodles.
- Tadi, aku makan mi di warung sebelah.Earlier, I ate noodles at the nearby food stall.
- Punya rekomendasi untuk bakmi terenak di daerah ini?Do you have a recommendation for the most delicious bakmi in this area?
- Kapan kita bisa mencoba mi rame khas Betawi?When can we try Betawi-style noodles?
- Saya suka makan mi goreng.I like eating fried noodles.
- Mi ini rasanya sangat enak.This noodle is very delicious.
- Apakah ada mi di dalam sup ini?Is there any noodle in this soup?
Example conversation
Budi and Maya are deciding what to eat for lunch.
- MayaMaya, kamu mau makan apa hari ini?Maya, what do you want to eat today?
- MayaSaya ingin makan mi.I want to eat noodles.
- BudiIde bagus, ayo kita cari warung mi.Good idea, let's look for a noodle stall.
- MayaAyo, saya sudah sangat lapar!Let's go, I am very hungry!
Sources
- Wiktionary, “noodle” translations and entries mi, mie, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries mi, CC BY-SA 4.0.
