Expats Share Their Favorite Indonesian Words — And the Answers Are So Relatable
In a charming and humorous Instagram Reel, a group of expats living in Indonesia are asked a simple but revealing question: “What’s your favorite Indonesian word?” The answers range from funny and heartfelt to downright relatable for anyone who has spent time in the country.
From the iconic “mantap” (which loosely translates to “awesome” or “solid”) to the ever-useful “boleh” (“can” or “may”), each word reflects how language shapes daily life, relationships, and even personality shifts when living abroad.
🎥 Watch the video: instagram.com/reel/DCq6Z-fPlFQ
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One expat gleefully chooses “astaga”—an Indonesian expression of shock or disbelief—because of how often he hears it and how fun it is to say. Another mentions “enak” (“delicious”), a word that perfectly encapsulates Indonesia’s rich food culture. And of course, someone had to say “nggak” (a casual way to say “no”), which becomes second nature after just a few weeks in the country.
What makes this video delightful isn’t just the vocabulary—it’s the way these words represent deeper connections. They’re not just tools for communication; they’re emotional anchors that make Indonesia feel more like home.
Whether you’re new to Bahasa Indonesia or have been picking it up along the way, this reel is a feel-good reminder that sometimes, one word can say so much.
