Embuh
/jv/
Source Language: The language or dialect this term originates from (JV).
Javanese•1 meaning found
Interjection
An abrupt remark, made especially as an aside or interruption, expressing emotion.
A Javanese interjection expressing ignorance or lack of knowledge regarding a matter, situation, or question. Equivalent to “I don't know” in standard Indonesian.
tidak tahu
The standard Indonesian equivalent used in both formal and informal contexts.
ora weruh
A phrasal synonym in Javanese ngoko that is more structurally explicit compared to the single-word 'embuh'.
nggak tahu
Informal Indonesian equivalent frequently used as a direct translation of 'embuh' in everyday conversation.
The word embuh is a native Javanese vocabulary item belonging to the ngoko register, the most informal speech level within the Javanese honorific system known as unggah-ungguh. It is commonly used in daily conversation among individuals who share a close or socially equal relationship. The word has several phonetic variants. “Mbuh” is the most frequently encountered shortened form in spoken language, while “ambuh” is a variant with an optional initial vowel. All three forms carry identical meaning and may be used interchangeably depending on the speaker's dialect or individual preference. Pragmatically, embuh functions not only as a direct response to a question, but can also convey an attitude of resignation, indifference, or reluctance to engage further with a topic, depending on the intonational context and speech situation.
Embuh, aku ora ngerti kahanan koyo mau. (Nggak tahu, aku tidak paham perihal seperti tadi.)
Representative of real-world usage and contextual accuracy.
Slang evolves fast. If this word is used differently in your circle, add it here.
Definition: A term for a hole or depression in the ground or road surface caused by erosion, damage, or other natural factors. The term often refers to a damaged road condition that is potentially hazardous.
Learn More