Signification
When kindness is met with cruelty
Contexte culturel
The concept of 'Hutang Budi' (Debt of Gratitude) is so strong that it is often said to be a debt you carry to the grave. Breaking this is a major social taboo. The use of 'tuba' root for fishing is a traditional practice in the rivers of Sumatra and Kalimantan. It represents a deep connection to the land and its resources. While the proverb is in Indonesian, Javanese culture has a similar concept called 'Ora ngerti tatanan' (not knowing the order/ethics), which includes ingratitude. In Jakarta, this phrase is often used ironically or in 'curhat' (heart-to-heart) sessions about toxic relationships.
Use for Emphasis
Use this phrase when you want to sound more eloquent and serious about a disappointment.
Don't Overuse
If you use this for every small problem, it loses its power. Save it for the big betrayals!
Signification
When kindness is met with cruelty
Use for Emphasis
Use this phrase when you want to sound more eloquent and serious about a disappointment.
Don't Overuse
If you use this for every small problem, it loses its power. Save it for the big betrayals!
The 'Budi' Connection
Understanding this proverb is the key to understanding the Indonesian concept of social debt.
Teste-toi
Choose the correct word to complete the proverb.
Air susu dibalas air ____.
'Tuba' is the traditional poison root used in this proverb.
Which situation best fits the proverb 'Air susu dibalas air tuba'?
Select the best scenario:
This proverb is for serious betrayals where kindness is met with active harm.
Fill in the missing verb in the passive form.
Kebaikan ibu itu ____ air tuba oleh anaknya.
The proverb uses the passive form 'dibalas' (is repaid).
Complete the dialogue with the most natural response.
A: 'Aku sudah merawatnya saat dia sakit, tapi sekarang dia malah menuduhku mencuri.' B: '____'
This is the natural way to sympathize with someone who has been betrayed.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
Milk vs. Tuba
Banque d exercices
4 exercicesAir susu dibalas air ____.
'Tuba' is the traditional poison root used in this proverb.
Select the best scenario:
This proverb is for serious betrayals where kindness is met with active harm.
Kebaikan ibu itu ____ air tuba oleh anaknya.
The proverb uses the passive form 'dibalas' (is repaid).
A: 'Aku sudah merawatnya saat dia sakit, tapi sekarang dia malah menuduhku mencuri.' B: '____'
This is the natural way to sympathize with someone who has been betrayed.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
5 questionsYes, it is a plant (Derris elliptica) whose roots contain rotenone, a chemical used to stun fish.
Yes, but only if you are discussing a very serious breach of trust or ethics.
It's not a swear word, but it is a very strong accusation of bad character.
There isn't a direct single proverb, but 'Hutang emas dapat dibayar, hutang budi dibawa mati' (Gold debts can be repaid, kindness debts are carried to the grave) is the positive counterpart.
People will understand you, but it's not the 'correct' proverb. Stick to 'tuba'.
Expressions liées
Kacang lupa kulitnya
similarThe peanut forgets its shell.
Menolong anjing terjepit
similarHelping a trapped dog (who then bites you).
Tak tahu balas budi
synonymDoesn't know how to return kindness.
Musuh dalam selimut
relatedEnemy under the blanket.
Pagar makan tanaman
similarThe fence eats the plants.
