Question
Updated on
30 Oct 2020
- English (US)
-
Malay
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Malay
-
Spanish (Colombia)
Question about Malaysia
When are different forms of "you" said? I was told "awak" is informal. I've heard "lu" said. and I think I've heard "aku."
When are different forms of "you" said? I was told "awak" is informal. I've heard "lu" said. and I think I've heard "aku."
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- Country or region Malaysia
Awak is a formal way to address someone. If you meet someone for the first time or you are not really that close with that person, it is advisable to use Awak
Aku is an informal version of Awak. Should only be used when you are talking to someone your age or to someone younger. But again if you're not that close, then better use Awak.
Lu is a slang and truly NOT advisable to use because it is a street language. Only gangsters/someone who pretends to be tough use it.
- Country or region United States
- Country or region Malaysia
Awak = you (semi-formal or can even be casual, not used in official conversation)
Aku= I (casual, used with people you are close with. ) does not mean YOU. Aku= I.
Lu= you. crude, street language, usually by men.
- Country or region Malaysia
@jlearner4 Oh yeahh I made a mistake with Aku. So sorry @teachertamara . Aku means "I". "You" is Awak.
- Country or region Malaysia
awak is when you're talking to someone which is like a stranger . Lu is the same meaning like awak but malay people doesn't say this it's chinese people actually . Aku is when you're talking to your close friend
- Country or region Malaysia
both "awak" and "lu" share the same meaning which is "you" in English while "aku" means "I".
awak: casual, can be use in conversation with friends and family but not in official situation.
lu: is street language ONLY USE IN CONVERSATION WITH CLOSS FRIEND.
The formal way to say "you" in Malay is "kamu"
On the other hand,
aku: casual
saya: formal
Beside that, it is also quite often that native Malaysian use the word "I" directly.
- Country or region Malaysia
If it comes to the most formal use & politest way, consider using ‘Awak’. It’s the best for any communication. ‘Kamu’ generally used by older person to refer to younger person that he/she speaking to.
Let’s leave ‘Anda’ aside to avoid further confusion 😅
- Country or region Malaysia
Awak(You), Saya(I/me) = it more polite. We use it when talk with older people, parents and even kids also with stranger. It can be formal or casual.
Kau (you), Aku(I/me) = usually use with your friends or someone you know, even you can use it with siblings. Not recommend to use with older people or strange people, it not polite. Casual.
Lu (you) = Certain people use it. Not recommend when you talk with strange people or older people. You can use with your friend. It getting rude when you use with people you doesn’t know.
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