cantik — meaning in English: Beautiful

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for Beautiful

malam

perubahan

cantik

filsafat

sekolah

Skip this question

🎓

Learn Indonesian for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

informal very common

Usage

Native speakers often use 'cantik' in daily conversations to compliment someone’s appearance, such as saying 'Kamu cantik' when meeting friends or during social gatherings. It is also common in romantic contexts, where one might express admiration for a partner's beauty, enhancing the emotional connection.

Synonyms & nuances

'Cantik' is often compared to 'indah', which means 'beautiful' but is used more for things like landscapes or art. If you want to praise a person's physical appearance specifically, 'cantik' is the more appropriate choice.

Culture

'Cantik' has roots in the Malay language, where it also carries similar meanings of beauty and attractiveness. In Indonesian culture, beauty is often celebrated in art, literature, and even folklore, with many traditional songs and poems praising the beauty of women and nature alike.

FAQ

Q.What does 'cantik' mean in English?

'Cantik' translates to 'beautiful' in English and is commonly used to describe someone's looks or a pleasing aesthetic.

Q.Can I use 'cantik' for both men and women?

'Cantik' is typically used to describe women. For men, you would use 'ganteng', which means 'handsome'.

Q.Is 'cantik' used in formal settings?

'Cantik' is generally used in informal contexts among friends or family. In formal settings, such as speeches or written communication, you might opt for a more nuanced description of beauty.

Learn indonesian with Maspeak →

Indonesian Vocabulary