Au ah gelap
/id/Source Language: The language or dialect this term originates from (ID).Definition & Context
InterjectionInterjection
An abrupt remark, made especially as an aside or interruption, expressing emotion.
An expression of indifference or deliberate disengagement; used to convey that the speaker does not care about or wish to be involved in a particular matter. Equivalent to the formal expression “masa bodoh”.
Synonyms & Variants
bodo amat
Another slang expression that means indifference, often used in informal contexts and daily social interactions.
cuek
To be indifferent, unconcerned, or not bothered.
masa bodoh
This expression has the same meaning of indifference, but 'masa bodoh' is more commonly used in formal or standard language.
tidak peduli
A verbal phrase that literally means 'to not show concern' or 'to be indifferent', serving as a formal equivalent of 'Au ah gelap'.
Usage Notes or Etymology
The expression au ah gelap is an informal slang phrase that emerged in casual Indonesian urban speech, particularly among younger generations. It consists of three components: au (a colloquial shortening of “tidak tahu”, meaning “I don't know”), the emphatic particle ah, and the word gelap (literally “dark”), used metaphorically to imply deliberate ignorance or unwillingness to engage. Together, the phrase suggests the speaker is intentionally leaving a matter “in the dark”. Its widespread adoption through social media and online messaging platforms has cemented it as one of the most recognizable national expressions of indifference in contemporary Indonesian slang.
Real-world Usage
Au ah gelap, urusan lo kok ribet amat sih.
English Translation
Representative of real-world usage and contextual accuracy.