malas — meaning in English: lazy

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berempati

warna

kenapa

sama

malas

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informal common

Usage

Native speakers often use 'malas' in informal settings, such as during casual conversations among friends when discussing motivation or productivity. For example, someone might say, 'Saya malas bekerja hari ini' (I am lazy to work today) when feeling unmotivated to tackle tasks.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 'ogah', which also means reluctant or unwilling, but 'malas' specifically conveys a lack of energy or motivation. You would use 'malas' when you want to emphasize a general laziness rather than just reluctance.

Culture

'Malas' holds cultural significance in Indonesian society, where the concept of work-life balance is increasingly valued. Interestingly, the word is derived from the Malay term 'malas', which has similar meanings across various Southeast Asian languages, reflecting a shared cultural understanding of laziness throughout the region.

FAQ

Q.What is the meaning of 'malas' in English?

'Malas' translates to 'lazy' in English, describing someone who lacks the desire to work or exert effort.

Q.How do you use 'malas' in a sentence?

You can use 'malas' in sentences like 'Dia malas belajar' (He/She is lazy to study) to describe someone's lack of motivation.

Q.Is 'malas' considered a negative word?

'Malas' can carry a negative connotation, as it often implies a lack of ambition or effort. However, it can also be used humorously among friends.

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Indonesian Vocabulary