I'm learning bahasa Indonesia

berteman — meaning in English: be friends

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for be friends
berteman
pergi
keberhasilan
katalis
lapar
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Indonesian for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
informal common
Usage
Native speakers often use 'berteman' in casual conversations when expressing a desire to establish or reinforce friendships. For instance, at social gatherings, one might say, 'Mari kita berteman,' inviting others to connect and deepen their relationship.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym for 'berteman' is 'berkenalan,' which means 'to get to know.' While 'berteman' implies a deeper, more ongoing relationship, 'berkenalan' is usually used for initial introductions. Choose 'berteman' when you want to emphasize forming a lasting friendship.
Culture
'Berteman' derives from the root word 'teman,' meaning 'friend.' In Indonesian culture, friendship is highly valued, and the act of becoming friends often involves sharing meals, participating in communal activities, and showing support, which underscores the importance of social bonds in everyday life.
FAQ
Q.How do you use 'berteman' in a sentence?
You can say, 'Saya ingin berteman dengan kamu,' which translates to 'I want to be friends with you.' It's a straightforward way to express your intention to establish a friendship.
Q.Are there any formal ways to say 'be friends' in Indonesian?
'Berteman' is generally informal, but you could use 'menjalin persahabatan,' which means 'to establish a friendship.' This phrase is suitable for more formal contexts.
Q.Is 'berteman' used only among close friends?
'Berteman' can be used both among close friends and when making new acquaintances. It's a versatile term that fits various social interactions.
Learn indonesian with Maspeak →
Indonesian Vocabulary