How to Say Thank You in Indonesian

In Indonesia, expressing gratitude is an essential part of their culture. Whether you want to thank someone formally or informally, it’s important to understand the different ways to convey your appreciation. This guide will provide you with tips, examples, and variations on how to say “thank you” in Indonesian.

Formal Expressions

When you want to show your gratitude in a formal setting, such as in business or to someone older or in a higher position, the following phrases will be appropriate:

• Terima kasih – This is the most common and neutral way to say “thank you” in Indonesian. It can be used in various situations and is always safe to rely on.
• Terima kasih banyak – This phrase adds emphasis to your gratitude, translating to “thank you very much.” It can be used when you want to convey a higher level of appreciation.
• Terima kasih banyak atas bantuannya – Use this expression to express thanks in a more formal manner and specifically acknowledge someone’s help. It means “thank you very much for your help.”

Informal Expressions

In casual or informal situations, when interacting with friends, family, or peers, you can use these more relaxed expressions of gratitude:

• Makasih – This is a widely-used and popular way to say “thanks” in a casual setting. It’s the informal version of “terima kasih.”
• Terima kasih ya – Adding “ya” at the end of the phrase makes it sound friendlier and more colloquial. It’s similar to saying “thanks, yeah?” in English.
• Terima kasih banget – This expression conveys a higher level of appreciation and excitement, similar to saying “thanks a lot” or “thanks heaps.”

Regional Variations

Indonesian is a diverse country with various regional languages and dialects. While the phrases mentioned earlier are widely understood across the nation, some regions have their own unique ways of saying “thank you.” Here are a few examples:

Javanese

In Javanese, one of the prominent regional languages in Indonesia, the following expressions are commonly used:

Matur nuwun – This phrase is used to express gratitude in Javanese. It’s similar to “terima kasih” but specific to the Javanese language.

Matur suwun – Another variation in Javanese, implying the same meaning as “terima kasih.”

Betawi

Betawi, spoken in and around Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia, has its own way of saying “thank you”:

Babeh nggih – This phrase is prevalent among the Betawi people and is a casual way of expressing gratitude. “Babeh” means “father” and “nggih” means “yes.” Together, it roughly translates to “thank you, sir.”

Tips for Expressing Gratitude

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when expressing your gratitude in Indonesian:

• Smile – A warm smile goes a long way in conveying your appreciation, regardless of the words you use.
• Use hand gestures – Pair your thank you with a gesture, such as placing your right hand over your heart or slightly bowing your head, to show sincerity and respect.
• Be specific – Whenever possible, mention the reason you’re thanking someone. For example, “Terima kasih atas pelayanannya yang sangat baik” means “Thank you for your excellent service.”
• Combine formal and informal – If you’re unsure which level of formality to use, it’s generally safe to err on the side of formality. However, if you feel comfortable, you can mix in some informal expressions with people you have a closer relationship with.

Expressing gratitude is an excellent way to show respect and build relationships in Indonesian culture. By using the appropriate phrases and following the tips provided, you’ll be able to convey your appreciation effectively. Remember, a heartfelt “terima kasih” can make a big difference in brightening someone’s day.