Get Closer to Bali Locals Through Simple Balinese Language

If there is one way to win someone’s heart is to show how much you appreciate them by paying attention to little things. When we talk about Balinese people, they are all about welcoming and embracing everyone who comes to witness the beauty of their home island. It is like the part of their hearts to befriend comers. They would not mind spending time to accompany and introduce you to the real Bali, something outside the common picture of beaches, clubs, and all-time summery vibe. Therefore, it would not be wrong for anyone to try learning about Balinese language as a form of appreciation to the locals’ open hands. It does not have to be complicated, any simple saying will do. Balinese people, in general, understand English and speak Indonesian, aside of Balinese language that they use daily. It would not be too hard for you to converse in English almost anywhere, especially with them who work in the hospitality industry to serve and help you get the best experience there. However, just like how it was mentioned at first, would not it be more exciting if you can learn something new while conversing with the locals? Something simple as greeting them in Balinese language will flatter anyone who hears it, thus making your relationship with them closer and possibly more comfortable to spend time together around Bali or even just bumping onto each other in restaurants or local shops along the road. When you visit The Udaya, try conversing it with our staff who will be more than happy to guide you through Balinese simple words! If you are eager to learn, let’s just jump the greetings know-how without further ado. 1. Bli Should we interpret “Bli” as “Sir” in English? It has almost the same meaning! You will often hear the word “Bli” fleeing across the air everywhere you go in Bali, because it is the most common greeting for men. You can use the word “Bli” for an older man or those who look around the same age as you (though you actually have no idea at all!). It is also the politest form of greeting, especially if they are strangers. Another option is to call them “Bapak” as usually used in daily Indonesian language to address the male strangers, specifically in a case where they look way older. Extra tip for beginners who are curious about ways to greet them properly in Balinese language. Whenever you bump into someone you would like to have a conversation with, try saying “Om swastiastu, Bli” or something casual like “Hello, Bli!” to begin the conversation and just let everything flow. 2. Gus “Gus”, on the other hand, has a more casual approach in greeting, especially if you acknowledge that this person is younger. “Gus” was derived from the word bagus that means handsome in Balinese language. Since it holds a more casual and friendly context, it is more suitable for someone you have known before. Even for some people, this can be considered as impolite to use when you have not met before, even though the word itself carries a positive meaning. However, if you are using this to someone you have known for a while, it will instead flatter them! Let’s just be frank—who would not love being called handsome or good looking? 3. Mbok Do not use the word “Mbok” to greet a man in Bali, because it is meant to be addressed to women. You can use the word “Mbok” when starting a conversation with an older woman, or simply a stranger whose age is still unidentified to you. Just like “Bli”, “Mbok” contains a proper and positive value to use everywhere to everyone. However, if you bump into someone whom you are sure are much elder than you, it is most polite to use “Ibu” to address them instead of “Mbok” or worse, “Gek”. It sounds more respectful as Indonesia’s culture really differs greeting based on age. What is “Gek” anyway? Let’s continue to the next and last course of the day. 4. Gek Just like “Gus”, you can only call someone “Gek” if you are sure you have built a bond or at least a friendly yet comfortable relationship with them. The word “Gek” comes from jegeg that means beautiful or pretty. Is it a negative word? Not at all. Yet the use for its context can be confusing sometimes because when used wrongly, it could be heard as a seduction from a younger man to an older woman he barely knows. Therefore, always use the word “Gek” wisely or you can always opt for “Mbok” or “Ibu” for a safer way to begin a talk.

Just by remembering what to call and how to use it properly, you will also be able to give them a little token of appreciation. Balinese people live up to their ancient cultures and still holds every bit of the essence to their daily life. They are very proud of the cultural values hence will really appreciate comers who are willing to learn even just a simple way to address them. Aside, it will also add up some knowledge for your next visit to Bali, because one visit is never enough when it comes to Bali island.