How to Say "Friend" in Malay
The most natural way to say "Friend" in Malay is kawan. Tap the speaker above to hear it, then say it back out loud. That is the fastest way to make it stick.
Other ways to say it
When to use it
You can use 'kawan' in casual conversations to refer to a friend. It is suitable for both acquaintances and close friends. Use 'teman' in more formal situations or when writing. 'Sahabat' is best for expressing a deeper friendship.
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Examples in Malay
| Malay | English |
|---|---|
| Dia adalah kawan saya. | He/She is my friend. |
| Kita sudah lama menjadi kawan. | We have been friends for a long time. |
The fastest way to remember it
Vocabulary you only read fades fast. Vocabulary you say out loud sticks. Hear kawan, repeat it a few times, then use it in a real sentence. SPAIKING lets you practice exactly that, speaking Malay with a coach that corrects your pronunciation in real time. You can start with two free conversations.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between 'kawan' and 'sahabat'?
'Kawan' is a general term for friend, while 'sahabat' refers to a close or best friend.
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