Formal vs Informal Indonesian

Indonesian has distinct formal and informal registers. Informal is used most of the time with friends, family, and peers. Formal is mandatory when speaking to strangers, older people, or in professional/official settings.

When to Use Each Register§

Informal (Casual)§

• With friends and family
• With people your age or younger
• In casual conversations
• On social media

Formal (Polite)§

• With strangers
• With older people (elders)
• In professional settings
• In official situations
• When showing respect

Examples in Context§

Greeting Someone§

Informal: Hai, kamu siapa? = “Hi, who are you?” Formal: Selamat pagi, siapa nama Anda? = “Good morning, what is your name?”

Asking for Help§

Informal: Bisa bantu aku gak? = “Can you help me?” Formal: Bisakah Anda membantu saya? = “Could you help me?”

Saying Goodbye§

Informal: Yaudah, bye! = “Alright, bye!” Formal: Baiklah, selamat tinggal = “Well then, goodbye”