7 Bahasa Indonesia Expressions That Challenge English Translators — and How Experts Handle Them

Every language carries a soul, and Bahasa Indonesia is no exception. Translating from Indonesian to English is not just about finding the right words — it’s about preserving rhythm, tone, and emotion. For Indo to English Localization, idiomatic expressions are a true test of skill. In this article, we’ll explore seven uniquely Indonesian expressions that often confuse translators — and how professionals adapt them to sound natural in English while keeping their original meaning alive. 
 
1. “Makan angin” (Eating the wind) 
Literal translation: “to eat the wind.” In English, this phrase makes little sense. It means “to go for a walk” or “take a leisurely stroll.” Translators use contextual adaptation to express relaxation instead of hunger. 
 
2. “Cuci mata” (Wash the eyes) 
This playful expression means to “window-shop” or “refresh the eyes.” Instead of a literal translation, localization experts use phrases like “have a look around” or “take in the sights.” 
 
3. “Ada udang di balik batu” (There’s a shrimp behind the rock) 
Equivalent to “there’s something fishy.” Translators often use the English idiom to maintain familiarity while preserving the sense of hidden motives. 
 
4. “Masuk angin” (Wind entering the body) 
Refers to feeling unwell from exposure. In English, it translates as “catching a cold.” Understanding local beliefs helps translators find equivalent idioms. 
 
5. “Kambing hitam” (Black goat) 
Means “scapegoat.” The term carries identical meaning but different imagery. Translators must decide whether to retain the metaphor or use the standard English equivalent. 
 
6. “Buaya darat” (Land crocodile) 
Used for a flirtatious man. English alternatives like “womanizer” or “playboy” convey the same connotation without cultural confusion. 
 
7. “Jaga image” (Maintain image) 
A modern slang borrowed from English but with distinct local flavor, referring to social reputation. Translators maintain tone through equivalent informal phrasing like “keeping up appearances.” 
 
Conclusion 
Indonesian expressions show that localization is both art and anthropology. Translators are cultural navigators, turning local color into global understanding without losing voice or humor. 
 
FAQs 
1. Why are idioms difficult to translate?   
Because their meanings depend on cultural context rather than literal words. 
 
2. What’s the best approach to translating idioms?   
Transcreation — rewriting expressions to retain intent and tone. 
 
3. Do Indonesian idioms always have English equivalents?   
Not always. Some require creative rephrasing for global audiences. 
 
4. What makes Bahasa Indonesia unique for translators?   
Its informal tone and metaphor-rich expressions. 
 
5. How can businesses avoid idiom confusion in localization?   
By hiring native linguists familiar with both linguistic and cultural nuance.