Indonesian is full of playful expressions that can turn even the dullest gathering into a laugh-filled event. Whether you’re at a casual meet-up or a big party, dropping one of these phrases will make you sound like a local - and probably get a few chuckles too.
1. "Jago kandang"
Jago kandang
/ˈdʒaɡo ˈkandɑŋ/“Local champion”
Perfect for ribbing a friend who’s loud at home but silent at parties.
2. "Garing"
Garing
/ˈɡarɪŋ/“Dry (as in humour)”
If someone tells a cringe-worthy joke, just sigh and say, "Wah, garing banget!" ("Wow, so dry!").
3. "Makan tuh janji!"
Makan tuh janji
/ˈmakan tuh ˈdʒanji/“Eat that promise!”
Best delivered with a smirk when your mate bails on plans - again.
4. "Sok asik"
Sok asik
/sɔk ˈasɪk/“Trying too hard to be cool”
Use this when a friend starts name-dropping obscure bands or flexing unnecessarily.
5. "Gue jago bahasa planet!"
Gue jago bahasa planet
/ɡue ˈdʒaɡo baˈhasa ˈplanɛt/“I’m fluent in alien language”
Great for breaking the ice if you mangle a phrase.
6. "Jangan baper!"
Jangan baper
/ˈdʒaŋan ˈbapɛr/“Don’t take it to heart”
The Indonesian equivalent of "Chill, it’s just a joke!"
7. "Santuy"
Santuy
/ˈsantuɪ/“Chill”
Drop this when things get too serious.
8. "Baperan mode on"
Baperan mode on
/baˈpɛran ˈmodɛ ɔn/“Overemotional mode activated”
Use it before your friend launches into a rant about their ex.
9. "GWS" (pronounced "ge-way-es")
GWS
/ɡe-we-ɛs/“Get well soon”
Example: Friend complains about a paper cut? "GWS, bro."
10. "Mager"
Mager
/ˈmaɡər/“Too lazy to move”
When you’re invited out but can’t be bothered: "Aduh, gue mager nih." ("Ugh, I’m too lazy.")
For more quirky phrases, check out 10 Indonesian Words That Sound Funny to Foreigners.
