Understanding Indonesian Relationship Status Vocabulary for Expats

Share:

Dating in Indonesia can feel different for foreigners due to culture shock. The many terms for relationship status may be one of the first things you’ll encounter in Indonesia.

As shown in the viral video @indonesianwithlauren, foreigners will be surprised by the number of terms for relationship status in Indonesia.

For expats, it’s no surprise that there are some dating terms you’ll only hear and know about. Plus, some of the younger generation are using new dating terms.

Yes, there are tons of dating relationship terms. Let’s engage in the process of unpacking them one by one.

PDKT
PDKT is the approach period at the beginning of a relationship with a crush. At this time, people are more focused on finding compatibility by looking at their crushes’ strengths and weaknesses.PDKT people will invite intense communication, either through WhatsApp chat or telephone, to chat directly. It is not uncommon to go out or on a date once or twice before entering the stage of expressing love.

Gebetan
Gebetan in slang refers to a person you like. Gebetan can also be referred to as crush. Remember, crushes are temporary feelings, and they may disappear quickly. However, there are also people who have crushes for years.

TTM (Teman Tapi Mesra)
You may also know this as “friends with benefits” or “no-strings-attached.” You’re not a couple (for various reasons), but you’re intimate with each other. The idea is that you agree to have an intimate relationship with no love involved and no demands to be attached. However, these relationships rarely work out as expected. It’s usually because one person falls in love with the other.

HTS (Hubungan Tanpa Status)
HTS or a relationship without status can mean they may be dating but not a couple. The relationship is determined by what the individuals involved do.

People in a relationship without status (HTS) can explore different parts of their lives. They can also discover what works best for them. This relationship will appeal to those needing more time to commit.

CLBK (Cinta Lama Bersemi Kembali)
CLBK stands for “old love rekindled.” The term refers to a situation in which two people who were once in a romantic relationship reunite after a separation or breakup.

Pacar
Pacar is a permanent lover who has a mental relationship based on love. In English, it is known as boyfriend and girlfriend, but the word pacar in Indonesia is more gender-neutral and can be used for both men and women.

Mantan
Mantan is a nickname or designation for someone who has a close relationship with us. If he/she is worth fighting for, then there is nothing wrong with trying to make love again.

Those are the relationship terms in Indonesia. Do you have any more?

Find this article helpful? Check out other articles from Social Expat for more updates about Culture in Indonesia!

A writer fueled by passion, with a deep admiration for Taylor Swift’s artistry. You can find Imelda on the weekend in the joy of being a paw parent or curled up on the couch, engrossed in the latest sci-fi or mystery novel.

Related News

Mark your calendars! Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, arrives in Indonesia on June 17th, 2024. This joyous occasion transcends religious observance, transforming into a celebration of community, gratitude, and of course, delicious food. In this island nation famed for its diversity, Eid al-Adha takes on a unique character, blending national traditions […]

In celebration of Jakarta’s anniversary, the annual Pekan Raya Jakarta, or Jakarta Fair Kemayoran 2024, has finally arrived. The Jakarta Fair open on June 12, 2024. This event is often considered the best market in Indonesia to hunt for industrial products and MSMEs or small businesses. What is the Jakarta Fair Kemayoran?   View this […]

As the warm Indonesian sun bathes the islands in its glow, May bursts onto the scene with a calendar of festivals and events. From cultural celebrations steeped in tradition to modern spectacles that ignite the senses, Indonesia is gearing up for a month that promises something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a […]

Located amidst the tapestry of Gianyar Regency in Bali lies the Sukawati Art Market, a haven for souvenir hunters, art enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a taste of Balinese culture. Renowned for its extensive collection of traditional handicrafts and local treasures, this bustling marketplace offers a unique experience unlike any other. What is Sukawati Art Market? […]

Expat Property

Indonesia Visas

Expat Event

Social Networking
Free
Treehaus, Jakarta
Social Networking
100,000
Glitz Inclusive, Kuningan City Mall
Social Networking
150,000
Skye Bar, Menara BCA

Indonesia Guide

Just For Fun

Write For Us

Exclusive Promotions

Event Gallery