Mastering basic politeness in any language is essential, and Bahasa Indonesia is no exception. In this guide, we will explore the various ways to say “please” in Bahasa Indonesia, including both formal and informal ways. Additionally, we will touch upon regional variations, although the focus will be on the common usage. Let’s dive in!
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Formal Ways to Say “Please”
Formal language is generally used in professional settings, formal interactions, or when showing respect to someone. Here are some formal ways to say “please”:
1. Tolong
“Tolong” is the most common and versatile word for “please” in Bahasa Indonesia. It is used in a variety of contexts and can be used both formally and informally. For example:
Tolong bicarakan masalah ini dengan tenang. (Please discuss this issue calmly.)
Mohon tolong datang tepat waktu. (Please come on time.)
2. Mohon
“Mohon” is another formal way to say “please” in Bahasa Indonesia. It is often used in written language or formal speech to convey politeness. Here are some examples:
Mohon maaf atas kekurangan kami. (Please accept our apologies for our shortcomings.)
Silakan mohon izin sebelum masuk. (Please seek permission before entering.)
Informal Ways to Say “Please”
Informal language is suitable for casual conversations, friends, and family. Here are some informal ways to say “please” in Bahasa Indonesia:
1. Minta
“Minta” is commonly used informally to mean “ask” or “request” but can also be used to soften requests or add politeness. It is commonly heard in daily conversations:
Minta tolong bantu saya. (Please help me.)
Ayo, minta maaf kepadanya. (Come on, please apologize to him/her.)
2. Bolehkah
“Bolehkah” is a more specific and polite way to ask for permission in informal settings. It is often used when seeking approval from someone:
Bolehkah saya duduk di sini? (May I sit here, please?)
Bolehkah saya meminjam bukumu? (Can I borrow your book, please?)
Regional Variations in Saying “Please”
Bahasa Indonesia is spoken across a vast archipelago, resulting in slight regional variations. While most of the mentioned phrases are widely understood and accepted throughout Indonesia, regional variations do exist. Here are a few examples:
1. Dimohonkan
Used more prominently in formal settings in Java, “dimohonkan” is an alternative form of “mohon” that adds an extra layer of respect:
Dimohonkan maaf jika terjadi ketidaknyamanan. (Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience caused.)
Silakan dimohonkan izin kepada atasan terlebih dahulu. (Please seek permission from the supervisor first.)
2. Aja
In informal conversation, particularly in Jakarta or West Java, “aja” is a shortened form of “saja” and can be used to soften commands or make requests:
Istirahat aja sebentar. (Just take a short break, please.)
Beli makanan ini aja ya. (Just buy this food, please.)
It’s important to note that these regional variations should be used with caution and may not be universally understood. Stick to the standard formal and informal terms outlined previously to ensure clarity.
Remember, politeness is highly valued in Indonesian culture, so incorporating “please” appropriately in your conversations will greatly enhance your interactions with native speakers. Practice these phrases regularly, listen to the locals’ usage, and you will soon become comfortable with expressing politeness in Bahasa Indonesia.
