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Hati-Hati! The Indonesian Word 'Hati' and the Language of the Heart

April 2, 2026
Hati-Hati! The Indonesian Word 'Hati' and the Language of the Heart

Hati-Hati! The Word 'Hati' and the Language of the Heart

"Hati" means heart. And "hati-hati" literally means heart-heart -- to be mindful.

The Hati Family

Positive

  • Baik hati -- Kind-hearted
  • Senang hati -- Happy heart / contentment
  • Murah hati -- Generous ("cheap heart")
  • Tulus hati -- Sincere
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Negative

  • Sakit hati -- Hurt feelings / heartbroken
  • Patah hati -- Broken heart
  • Keras hati -- Stubborn ("hard heart")
  • Iri hati -- Jealous

Functional

  • Hati-hati -- Be careful
  • Perhatian -- Attention / care

Why This Matters

When someone says "hati-hati di jalan," they're saying: carry your heart with care as you go. It's a farewell wrapped in affection.

Using Hati Daily

  • Goodbye: "Hati-hati, ya!"
  • Compliment: "Kamu baik hati sekali"
  • Empathy: "Saya turut sakit hati"

Explore emotions in our Feelings & Weather module!

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Fun with Indonesian — A Cheerful Guide to Speaking Bahasa Indonesia by Shane Larson
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