I'm learning Melayu

datang — meaning in English: come

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

Guess the translation for come
menyemai
dalam keadaan
datang
kebimbangan
mendaki
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Malay for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
neutral very common
Usage
Native speakers often use 'datang' in casual conversations when inviting someone to an event or gathering, such as saying 'Datang ke rumah saya!' ('Come to my house!'). It's also common in more formal settings, like when a host welcomes guests to a ceremony or celebration.
Synonyms & nuances
'Datang' can be compared to 'muncul', which also means to appear, but is used in contexts where something emerges rather than arrives. You would choose 'datang' when you want to emphasize the act of coming to a location, particularly when engaging with people.
Culture
'Datang' stems from the Proto-Malayic word which conveys not just the act of coming but also the idea of arriving at a place, embodying the warmth and hospitality that is central to Malay culture. In Malaysia, it's common for people to greet one another with invites to come over, reflecting the importance of community and connection.
FAQ
Q.What does 'datang' mean in English?
'Datang' translates to 'come' in English. It's used to express the act of arriving at a place or joining someone.
Q.How do you use 'datang' in a sentence?
You can use 'datang' in sentences like 'Saya akan datang esok' which means 'I will come tomorrow.' This shows intention and is quite common in everyday speech.
Q.Are there any common mistakes with using 'datang'?
One common mistake is to confuse 'datang' with 'pergi', which means 'to go.' Remember that 'datang' is for coming towards the speaker's location or position.
Learn malay with Maspeak →
Malay Vocabulary