The Hidden Language of Bali - Why ‘Terima Kasih’ Isn’t Enough

Bali Gate Tours

25 May 2025

Blog & Article

You arrive in Bali with a smile and your best Bahasa Indonesia: “Terima kasih,” you say to the driver. He nods politely. You walk into a warung, ask for “satu nasi goreng,” and pay with a cheerful “makasih!” Again, a smile—but something in the eyes feels distant.

You’ve learned the basics. You’re trying. So why does it sometimes feel like there’s a wall you can’t quite get past?

The truth is, you’re speaking the right language—just not the right one for here.

Because while Bahasa Indonesia is the national language, the soul of the island speaks in something older, softer, and more sacred: Bahasa Bali.

And even learning a handful of words can change everything.

Why Bahasa Indonesia Isn’t the Whole Story in Bali

To understand the language in Bali, you need to know that the island is a linguistic crossroads. Yes, everyone learns Bahasa Indonesia in school—it’s the official national language. But at home, in ceremonies, and inside villages, what’s spoken is Balinese.

This isn’t just dialect. It’s its own Austronesian language, with unique structure, vocabulary, and formality levels.

So when a foreigner says “terima kasih” instead of “suksma”, the message still lands. But it lacks intimacy.

It’s the difference between “thank you” and “thank you from the heart, in your voice.”

What Happens When You Speak Even One Word of Balinese

The shift is subtle—but real.

Say “suksma” instead of “terima kasih,” and you’ll see it. A wider smile. A sparkle of surprise. A nod that’s not just polite, but personal.

Try “rahajeng semeng” instead of “selamat pagi,” and the tone softens. You’re no longer just another tourist. You’re someone trying. Someone curious.

In a culture where speech is tied to ceremony and spirit, using Balinese phrases shows more than effort—it shows respect.

And in Bali, respect isn’t earned through money or manners. It’s earned through presence.

Balinese Language Has Layers—Here’s Why That Matters

One of the most fascinating (and challenging) parts of Bahasa Bali is its social structure. The language has three main levels:

Basa Alus (high language): used when speaking to elders, priests, or during rituals
Basa Madya (middle): for polite, everyday interaction
Basa Kasar (low): informal, casual among close friends or equals

This means that how you speak is tied to who you’re speaking to. And why you’re speaking at all.

It’s not about hierarchy—it’s about harmony. Maintaining balance and showing reverence where it’s due.

No one expects foreigners to master these levels, but understanding they exist makes you more sensitive to tone, gesture, and silence.

Essential Balinese Words to Know (That Locals Will Love You For)

Here’s a shortlist of Balinese words that carry a lot of cultural weight—and open a lot of hearts:

Suksma – Thank you
Suksma mewali – You’re welcome
Rahajeng semeng – Good morning
Rahajeng sonten – Good afternoon
Rahajeng wengi – Good evening
Matur suksma – Formal thank you (very respectful)
Kenken kabare? – How are you?
Tiang – I/me (humble form)
Bli – Big brother (used for men)
Mbok – Big sister or aunty (used for women)

These are not just words. They’re bridges. Small but sturdy ones.

How Language Opens Up Culture

When you speak even a little Balinese, you’re not just accessing vocabulary—you’re accessing relationship.

You’ll find:

Warung owners remembering your name
Grandmothers offering you fruit with a knowing smile
Children giggling and testing your pronunciation
Drivers telling you stories they don’t tell others

Why? Because you’ve shifted the dynamic. From transactional to relational.

You’re not just a guest anymore. You’re a participant.

Language and Spiritual Connection

Words in Bali aren’t just sound—they’re spiritual tools.

During ceremonies, priests chant mantras in Kawi (ancient Javanese-Sanskrit), but daily offerings are prepared with whispered phrases in Balinese.

Say “suksma” inside a pura, and it’s not just gratitude. It’s recognition—of the place, the people, the spirit behind both.

Even when you don’t fully understand, your willingness to speak Balinese during a ritual, festival, or family event is received as something holy. A gesture of soul, not just speech.

Why Tourists Rarely Learn Balinese (And Why You Should)

It’s understandable. Most phrasebooks don’t include Balinese. Apps focus on Bahasa Indonesia. And locals will happily speak English to you to make things easier.

But that ease can become a wall of comfort.

Learning a bit of Balinese language isn’t about fluency—it’s about depth. It’s about stepping into the cultural current rather than floating above it.

And honestly? It’s fun. There’s music in the rhythm. Humor in the tone. And so much intimacy in hearing a local say, “You speak like my uncle!”

Tips for Learning and Practicing Balinese Words

Start Small and Say It Often
Even just “suksma” and “rahajeng semeng” can go a long way. Use them with waitstaff, drivers, or your villa host.
Ask Locals to Teach You
Say, “Apa bahasa Balinya…?” and you’ll usually get a delighted smile and a mini lesson.
Write It Down, But Speak It More
Pronunciation matters more than spelling. Let your ear lead.
Use Audio Resources or YouTube Channels
A few local creators and teachers have started uploading simple Balinese language videos.
Don’t Worry About Mistakes
You’ll mispronounce. You’ll say the wrong form. It’s okay. In Bali, effort is always met with warmth.

The Emotional Impact of Speaking Balinese

There’s something that happens when you use a person’s mother tongue—not their second or third language. Walls soften. Eyes meet. Laughter happens.

You’ll start to feel the emotional landscape of Bali more vividly: