Meaning
Expressing sympathy for someone.
Cultural Background
Saying 'kasihan' is a sign of 'kelembutan hati' (softness of heart), which is a highly valued trait in Indonesian society. The concept of 'welas asih' (mercy/love) is central to Javanese philosophy, making 'kasihan' a very frequent and culturally deep word. In the capital, 'kasihan' is often shortened to 'kasian' and used rapidly in social media comments to show solidarity. The word is linked to the concept of 'sedekah' (alms). Feeling 'kasihan' is often the first step toward helping the poor.
The 'Ya' Factor
Always add 'ya' at the end ('Kasihan ya?') to sound more natural and empathetic in conversation.
Sarcasm Alert
Be careful with 'Kasihan deh lo'. It sounds like you are laughing at someone's failure.
Meaning
Expressing sympathy for someone.
The 'Ya' Factor
Always add 'ya' at the end ('Kasihan ya?') to sound more natural and empathetic in conversation.
Sarcasm Alert
Be careful with 'Kasihan deh lo'. It sounds like you are laughing at someone's failure.
Body Language
When saying 'kasihan', tilt your head slightly and pout your lips a little to show genuine emotion.
Test Yourself
Choose the best response for this situation: Your friend tells you they lost their phone.
Teman: 'Aduh, HP-ku hilang!' Kamu: '...'
You express sympathy for their loss.
Fill in the blank with the correct word.
Lihat kucing itu, dia kehujanan. ... ya?
A cat in the rain is a sad situation that evokes pity.
Match the phrase to the context.
1. Kasihan sekali korbannya. 2. Kasihan deh lo! 3. Saya merasa kasihan.
Different registers of kasihan suit different contexts.
Complete the dialogue naturally.
A: Aku tidak bisa tidur semalam karena berisik. B: Wah, ... . Sekarang kamu mengantuk?
B is sympathizing with A's lack of sleep.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Kasihan vs. Sayang
Practice Bank
4 exercisesTeman: 'Aduh, HP-ku hilang!' Kamu: '...'
You express sympathy for their loss.
Lihat kucing itu, dia kehujanan. ... ya?
A cat in the rain is a sad situation that evokes pity.
1. Kasihan sekali korbannya. 2. Kasihan deh lo! 3. Saya merasa kasihan.
Different registers of kasihan suit different contexts.
A: Aku tidak bisa tidur semalam karena berisik. B: Wah, ... . Sekarang kamu mengantuk?
B is sympathizing with A's lack of sleep.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
14 questionsYes, but it sounds very dramatic or self-pitying. 'Kasihan aku' (Poor me).
No, it's just the informal spelling of 'kasihan'.
'Kasihan' is everyday pity; 'iba' is a deep, soul-stirring compassion.
Simply say 'Kasihan kamu' or 'Aku kasihan padamu'.
No, it is a normal reaction, but it's better to follow it with help if possible.
No, for objects use 'Sayang' (What a waste).
It means 'mercy' or 'compassion' in a formal or religious sense.
Between best friends, it's playful teasing. To anyone else, it's mean.
It's a soft breathy sound, like in 'house'.
It's better to say 'Kasihan sekali' or 'Kasihan banget'.
Yes, a lawyer might ask for 'belas kasihan hakim' (the judge's mercy).
Very often! It's a staple word in romantic or sad Indonesian songs.
Yes, if a friend trips (and isn't hurt), you can say it jokingly.
The root is 'kasih', which means love or to give.
Related Phrases
Sayang sekali
similarWhat a pity / Too bad
Turut berduka
specialized formDeepest condolences
Iba
synonymDeep compassion
Prihatin
similarConcerned
Tega
contrastHeartless / Have the heart to do something
