This page in your language
فارسی العربية Deutsch Español Français 日本語 한국어 Português 中文 हिन्दी
A1 conjunction 12 min read

tapi

Examples
Explanation tapi in your Level:
At the A1 level, 'tapi' is one of the most important 'connector' words you will learn. It allows you to move beyond very short, choppy sentences like 'I like apples. I don't like oranges.' By using 'tapi', you can combine these into a more natural sentence: 'Saya suka apel, tapi saya tidak suka jeruk.' At this stage, your focus should be on using 'tapi' to connect two simple clauses or two adjectives. You will use it to describe things (e.g., 'Rumahnya besar, tapi tua' - The house is big, but old) or to talk about your preferences and daily activities. It is a fundamental building block for basic conversation. You don't need to worry about the more formal 'tetapi' yet; 'tapi' will serve you perfectly in almost every situation a beginner will encounter. The key is to remember to use it when there is a contrast between the first part of your sentence and the second. It is a very direct equivalent to the English word 'but', so you can rely on your English instincts for where to place it in a sentence. Practice using it to contrast colors, sizes, and simple likes/dislikes.
As an A2 learner, you are starting to build more complex descriptions and handle basic social interactions. 'tapi' becomes essential for making excuses or softening statements. For example, instead of just saying 'I cannot go,' you might say 'Saya mau pergi, tapi saya harus bekerja' (I want to go, but I have to work). This level of expression is much more polite and common in Indonesian culture. You will also start using 'tapi' with more varied vocabulary, such as adverbs of frequency and time. You might notice 'tapi' being used to introduce a minor problem in a generally positive situation, which is a common way to give feedback. At A2, you should also become aware that 'tapi' is the informal version of 'tetapi'. While you will mostly use 'tapi', being able to recognize 'tetapi' in simple reading materials is a good goal. You should also practice using 'tapi' to connect longer sentences and start paying attention to the comma that usually precedes it in written form. It's also a good time to learn common pairs like 'Murah tapi bagus' (Cheap but good) which are very useful in daily life.
Sign up free to read full explanation
At the B1 level, you are becoming a more independent user of Indonesian. You will use 'tapi' to express more nuanced opinions and to participate in discussions. At this stage, you should start distinguishing between 'tapi' and its more formal or specific alternatives. For instance, you should learn when to use 'sedangkan' (whereas) for comparisons and 'melainkan' (but rather) for corrections, rather than relying solely on 'tapi' for everything. You will use 'tapi' to construct arguments, such as 'Ini ide yang menarik, tapi kita harus mempertimbangkan resikonya' (This is an interesting idea, but we must consider the risks). You will also encounter 'tapi' in more idiomatic expressions and in the 'tapi kan' construction used to gently remind someone of a fact. Your listening skills should improve to the point where you can hear the 'hesitation' in a speaker's voice when they use a long 'tapi...', indicating a coming objection or refusal. At B1, you are also expected to use 'tetapi' more consistently in semi-formal writing, such as emails to colleagues or short reports, while reserving 'tapi' for casual conversation and text messages.
Sign up free to read full explanation
At the B2 level, you should have a firm grasp of the register shifts between 'tapi', 'tetapi', and 'namun'. You will use 'tapi' fluidly in fast-paced conversations, including using it as a conversational filler or to pivot quickly between ideas. You will understand how 'tapi' can be used rhetorically to set up a point and then immediately subvert it for effect. In your writing, you should be using 'namun' at the start of sentences to provide a sophisticated contrast between paragraphs or complex thoughts, while using 'tapi' or 'tetapi' within sentences. You will also be able to use 'tapi' in combination with other complex structures, like conditional sentences or passive voice constructions. For example, 'Masalah ini sudah dibahas, tapi belum ada solusinya' (This problem has been discussed, but there is no solution yet). You should also be comfortable with the cultural nuance of 'tapi' as a tool for 'basa-basi' (social pleasantries) and indirectness, knowing exactly how to use it to decline an offer without causing 'kurang enak hati' (unpleasant feelings).
Sign up free to read full explanation
As a C1 learner, your use of 'tapi' should be indistinguishable from a native speaker's in terms of placement and rhythm. You will understand the subtle stylistic choice between using 'tapi' and 'hanya saja' to introduce a minor caveat. You will also be able to use 'tapi' to navigate complex social hierarchies, knowing when the informal 'tapi' might be used by a superior to create a more relaxed atmosphere, or when a subordinate should stick to 'tetapi' to show respect. In professional settings, you can use 'tapi' to navigate disagreements diplomatically. Your understanding of the word extends to its role in literature and media, where 'tapi' might be used deliberately by an author to evoke a specific character's voice or a certain social class. You will also be proficient in using 'tapi' in long, complex sentences that involve multiple clauses and sub-clauses, maintaining grammatical clarity throughout. You can also use 'tapi' as a rhythmic device in storytelling, creating a sense of natural flow and suspense in your narratives.
Sign up free to read full explanation
At the C2 level, you have reached mastery. You understand the historical evolution of 'tetapi' into 'tapi' and how this reflects broader trends in the Indonesian language toward simplification in speech. You can analyze the use of 'tapi' in various regional dialects of Indonesian and how its usage might vary slightly in places like Medan, Jakarta, or East Java. You use 'tapi' with absolute precision, often using it to create specific rhetorical effects, such as irony, sarcasm, or profound contrast. In high-level debates or academic discussions, you can switch seamlessly between 'tapi', 'namun', 'akan tetapi', and 'sebaliknya' to provide the exact level of contrast and formality required. You are also aware of the most subtle errors that even advanced learners make, such as the redundant use of 'tapi' with other concessive conjunctions, and you avoid them instinctively. Your command of 'tapi' is not just about grammar; it is about a deep, intuitive understanding of the rhythm, culture, and soul of Indonesian communication.
Sign up free to read full explanation
Examples
In the vast and colorful landscape of the Indonesian language, few words are as ubiquitous, essential, and versatile as the conjunction tapi. At its most fundamental level, 'tapi' serves as the primary bridge used to connect two contrasting ideas, functioning exactly like the English word 'but'. However, to truly master Indonesian, one must understand that 'tapi' is much more than a simple translation; it is the heartbeat of informal communication. While the formal dictionary form is 'tetapi', you will find that in nearly 95% of daily conversations, Indonesians naturally truncate it to 'tapi'. This shorter version feels more rhythmic, less stiff, and perfectly suited for the fast-paced nature of spoken Indonesian. Whether you are haggling over prices at a traditional market (pasar), chatting with friends over a cup of kopi tubruk, or watching a modern sinetron (soap opera), 'tapi' will be the word you hear most frequently to signal a shift in thought or a contradiction.
Grammatical Role
Coordinating conjunction used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or modifies what has just been said.

Dia mau datang, tapi dia sedang sibuk sekali hari ini.

The word acts as a pivot. Imagine you are building a sentence where the first half sets a certain expectation. The word 'tapi' is the hinge that swings the door in the opposite direction. For example, if you say 'Buku ini bagus' (This book is good), the listener expects more praise. But once you add 'tapi', they know a criticism or a limitation is coming, such as 'tapi harganya mahal' (but the price is expensive). This linguistic structure is identical to English, making it one of the easiest concepts for English speakers to grasp early in their Indonesian learning journey.
Register
Informal and Neutral. It is acceptable in most social settings except for highly formal oratory or legal writing.

Makanan ini enak, tapi terlalu pedas untuk saya.

Furthermore, 'tapi' often carries a social function of softening a refusal. Indonesians generally value 'sopan santun' (politeness) and indirectness. When someone offers you something and you must decline, you rarely just say 'Tidak' (No). Instead, you might say 'Mau sih, tapi...' (I want to, but...), which signals a polite 'no' without being blunt. This cultural nuance makes 'tapi' an essential tool for navigating social interactions in Indonesia.
Frequency
Extremely high. It is within the top 50 most used words in conversational Indonesian.

Saya suka Jakarta, tapi macetnya luar biasa.

By understanding 'tapi', you unlock the ability to express complexity. You move beyond simple declarative sentences and start showing the relationship between conflicting facts, which is a hallmark of moving from a total beginner to a functional speaker. It is the most reliable tool in your linguistic toolbox for adding 'flavor' and 'reality' to your Indonesian speech.
Using tapi in a sentence is structurally straightforward, but there are stylistic nuances that can make you sound like a local. The most common pattern is [Clause A] + , + tapi + [Clause B]. In written form, even when using the informal 'tapi' in a text message, it is common to put a comma before it to indicate the pause that naturally occurs in speech. This pause is crucial because it prepares the listener for the 'pivot' or the contradiction that is about to follow. Unlike some other Indonesian conjunctions that can move around, 'tapi' almost always sits in the middle of the two ideas it is contrasting.
Basic Contrast
Connecting two simple adjectives or verbs that represent opposite states. Example: 'Murah tapi bagus' (Cheap but good).

Bajunya kecil, tapi muat di badan saya.

One interesting way 'tapi' is used is in combination with the particle 'kan'. You will often hear people say 'Tapi kan...' at the start of a sentence. This translates roughly to 'But, as you know...' or 'But surely...'. It is used when the speaker is trying to remind the listener of a fact that contradicts what was just said. For instance, if someone asks you to go out during a storm, you might reply, 'Tapi kan lagi hujan deras!' (But it's raining hard, right?!). This usage shows how 'tapi' can function as a standalone introductory element in dialogue to challenge a premise.
The 'Tapi Kalau' Pattern
Used to present a conditional alternative. 'Saya suka teh, tapi kalau ada kopi saya mau.' (I like tea, but if there is coffee, I want some.)

Aku mau ikut, tapi kalau lewat jam sepuluh aku tidak bisa.

Another frequent pattern is using 'tapi' to express a 'yes, but' sentiment. In Indonesian, this often involves the word 'sih'. You might say, 'Enak sih, tapi mahal.' (It is delicious [admittedly], but expensive). The 'sih' acknowledges the first point, while 'tapi' introduces the catch. This is a very natural-sounding construction that intermediate learners should strive to use.
Negative Contrast
Using 'tapi' to contrast a positive statement with a negative one. 'Dia pintar, tapi tidak rajin.' (He is smart, but not diligent.)

Mobilnya tua, tapi mesinnya masih sangat bagus.

Finally, remember that 'tapi' is a conjunction of coordination. This means that the two parts of the sentence it connects are usually of equal grammatical weight. If the first part is a full sentence, the second part is usually a full sentence as well. If the first part is just an adjective, the second part is often just an adjective. This symmetry makes 'tapi' a very balanced word to use when describing things or people.
If you were to walk through the streets of Jakarta, Bandung, or Bali, tapi would be part of the ambient noise of the city. It is truly a 'street' word. You will hear it in the 'warung' (small family-owned shops) when a customer is negotiating: 'Boleh kurang harganya? Saya mau beli dua, tapi uang saya cuma segini.' (Can the price be lower? I want to buy two, but I only have this much money). Here, 'tapi' is the tool of negotiation, used to bridge the gap between desire and reality.
In the Workplace
Even in offices, during meetings that aren't strictly formal, colleagues will use 'tapi' to offer counter-suggestions or to point out potential problems with a plan.

Idenya bagus, tapi kita butuh waktu lebih banyak.

In Indonesian pop culture, 'tapi' is everywhere. In pop songs (lagu pop), it is the quintessential word for heartbreak. You'll hear lyrics like 'Aku cinta kamu, tapi kamu cinta dia' (I love you, but you love him/her). It provides the necessary drama and conflict that drives the narrative of most Indonesian ballads. Similarly, in movies and television dramas, 'tapi' is used to create suspense or to reveal a hidden truth that contradicts the established scene.
Social Media & Messaging
On platforms like Twitter (X), Instagram, and TikTok, 'tapi' is the standard. It fits perfectly into the character-limited and fast-scrolling nature of digital content.

Kelihatannya gampang, tapi sebenarnya susah banget!

Another place you will hear 'tapi' is in the 'ojek' (motorcycle taxi) world. When you give directions to your driver, you might say, 'Mas, lurus saja, tapi nanti sebelum lampu merah belok kiri.' (Sir, just go straight, but later before the red light, turn left). In this context, 'tapi' is used to provide specific instructions that modify a general direction. It is also common in 'gosip' (gossip) sessions, where it is used to introduce juicy details: 'Dia orangnya baik, tapi katanya dia baru saja putus.' (He/She is a nice person, but they say they just broke up).
Family Life
Parents use it with children to set conditions: 'Boleh main game, tapi harus mandi dulu.' (You can play games, but you must shower first.)

Ibu mau masak, tapi gasnya habis.

In summary, 'tapi' is the universal lubricant of Indonesian conversation. It allows for the expression of contradictions, conditions, and nuances in a way that feels natural and unforced. If you want to sound like you truly live and breathe the language, embrace 'tapi' in your daily speech.
While tapi is easy to use, there are several common pitfalls that English speakers and even native speakers in certain contexts should avoid. The most significant mistake is using 'tapi' in highly formal writing. Because 'tapi' is an informal shortening of 'tetapi', using it in a thesis, a formal letter to a superior, or a legal document can make the writing appear unprofessional or lazy. In those contexts, you must use 'tetapi' or the more formal 'namun'.
The 'Tapi' vs. 'Namun' Confusion
'Namun' is used at the beginning of a sentence followed by a comma, whereas 'tapi' is usually used in the middle of a sentence to connect two clauses. Using 'tapi' at the start of a formal sentence is a common error.

Incorrect: Dia lelah. Tapi dia tetap bekerja. (Informal)
Better: Dia lelah, tapi tetap bekerja. (Neutral)

Another mistake is confusing 'tapi' with 'melainkan'. In English, 'but' covers both 'contrast' and 'instead'. In Indonesian, these are distinct. 'Tapi' is used for contrast (He is tall but thin). 'Melainkan' is used after a negative statement to mean 'but rather' (He is not a doctor, but a nurse). Using 'tapi' when you should use 'melainkan' is a classic mistake for learners. For example, 'Bukan ini tapi itu' is common in speech, but 'Bukan ini melainkan itu' is the correct grammatical structure for 'Not this but [rather] that'.
Overusing 'Tapi'
Beginners often rely on 'tapi' for every single contrast. To sound more advanced, try using 'padahal' (even though/actually) or 'sedangkan' (whereas) when appropriate.

Dia bilang tidak punya uang, tapi dia beli sepatu baru.

Placement of the comma is also a frequent point of confusion. While Indonesian comma rules are sometimes more relaxed than English ones in informal settings, the standard rule is to place a comma before 'tapi' when it connects two independent clauses. Omitting this comma in semi-formal emails can make your writing look a bit cluttered.
Double Conjunctions
Avoid using 'Walaupun' (Although) and 'tapi' (but) in the same sentence. In English, we don't say 'Although it is raining but I went out.' The same rule applies in Indonesian.

Incorrect: Walaupun hujan tapi saya pergi.
Correct: Walaupun hujan, saya pergi. OR Hujan, tapi saya tetap pergi.

Finally, be careful with the word 'hanya'. Sometimes learners say 'tapi hanya' (but only). While not strictly wrong, it can often be redundant or phrased more naturally. For example, 'Saya mau beli, tapi hanya satu' is fine, but 'Saya mau beli satu saja' is often more concise. Understanding these nuances will help you move from 'textbook Indonesian' to the way the language is actually lived and spoken.
To truly enrich your Indonesian vocabulary, you need to know when to use tapi and when to reach for one of its many cousins. Each alternative carries a slightly different weight, formality, or specific meaning that can change the tone of your sentence entirely.
Tetapi
The formal parent of 'tapi'. Use this in essays, formal speeches, and literature. It functions exactly like 'tapi' but signals a higher level of education or a more serious context.
Namun
This is the formal 'However'. It is almost always used at the beginning of a sentence to contrast the previous sentence. It is very common in news reports and academic writing.
Melainkan
Used specifically for 'but rather'. It follows a negative statement (usually starting with 'bukan'). Example: 'Ini bukan apel, melainkan pir' (This is not an apple, but rather a pear).

Dia bukan malas, melainkan sedang sakit.

Another powerful alternative is 'padahal'. While often translated as 'even though' or 'whereas', it is frequently used where an English speaker might use 'but' to express irony or a surprising contradiction. For example, 'Dia menangis, padahal dia menang' (He is crying, even though/but he won). 'Padahal' emphasizes the discrepancy between the two facts more strongly than 'tapi' does.
Sedangkan
Used for 'while' or 'whereas' when comparing two different subjects. 'Saya suka teh, sedangkan dia suka kopi.' (I like tea, while he likes coffee). 'Tapi' can be used here, but 'sedangkan' is more precise for comparison.

Baju ini merah, sedangkan yang itu biru.

There is also 'akan tetapi', which is a more emphatic version of 'tetapi'. It is quite formal and is used to introduce a significant counterpoint. Think of it as 'nonetheless' or 'but nevertheless'.
Comparison Table
Tapi: Casual/General Contrast | Tetapi: Formal Contrast | Namun: Sentence-starting 'However' | Melainkan: 'But rather' (after negative) | Padahal: 'Despite the fact that/But actually'.

Rencana itu bagus, akan tetapi biayanya terlalu besar.

Mastery of these alternatives allows you to express not just 'but', but the specific *kind* of 'but' you mean. This level of precision is what separates a basic communicator from a truly fluent speaker of Indonesian.
Sign up free to read full explanation

Examples by Level

1

Saya mau makan, tapi saya tidak punya uang.

I want to eat, but I don't have money.

Basic use of 'tapi' to connect two simple clauses.

2

Buku ini bagus, tapi mahal.

This book is good, but expensive.

Using 'tapi' to contrast two adjectives.

3

Dia pintar, tapi malas.

He/she is smart, but lazy.

Contrasting two personality traits.

4

Kopi ini enak, tapi pahit.

This coffee is delicious, but bitter.

Contrasting taste descriptions.

5

Saya suka kucing, tapi saya tidak suka anjing.

I like cats, but I don't like dogs.

Contrasting likes and dislikes.

6

Hari ini panas, tapi berangin.

Today is hot, but windy.

Describing weather conditions.

7

Mobil itu kecil, tapi cepat.

That car is small, but fast.

Contrasting physical attributes.

8

Saya bisa bicara bahasa Inggris, tapi tidak bisa bahasa Bali.

I can speak English, but I can't speak Balinese.

Contrasting abilities.

1

Saya mau datang ke pestamu, tapi saya harus bekerja lembur.

I want to come to your party, but I have to work overtime.

Using 'tapi' to provide an excuse.

2

Rumahnya jauh dari sini, tapi dekat dengan stasiun kereta.

The house is far from here, but close to the train station.

Contrasting location relative to different points.

3

Sepatu ini keren sih, tapi ukurannya terlalu kecil.

These shoes are cool [admittedly], but the size is too small.

Using 'sih... tapi' for a 'yes, but' construction.

4

Dia sudah belajar lama, tapi masih belum mengerti.

He/she has studied for a long time, but still doesn't understand.

Using 'tapi' to show a lack of expected result.

5

Makanan di warung itu murah, tapi rasanya sangat enak.

The food at that stall is cheap, but it tastes very good.

Contrasting price and quality.

6

Saya sudah kenyang, tapi saya mau coba kue itu sedikit.

I'm full, but I want to try a bit of that cake.

Using 'tapi' to express a small exception.

7

Dia orangnya pendiam, tapi kalau sudah kenal sangat lucu.

He/she is a quiet person, but once you know them, they're very funny.

Using 'tapi' with a conditional 'kalau'.

8

Tadi pagi hujan, tapi sekarang cuacanya cerah sekali.

It rained this morning, but now the weather is very bright/sunny.

Contrasting time and weather states.

1

Saya setuju dengan pendapat Anda, tapi ada beberapa hal yang perlu diperbaiki.

I agree with your opinion, but there are some things that need to be fixed.

Using 'tapi' for professional feedback.

2

Filmnya memang panjang, tapi ceritanya sangat menarik sampai akhir.

The movie is indeed long, but the story is very interesting until the end.

Using 'memang... tapi' to concede a point.

3

Dia punya banyak pengalaman, tapi dia kurang percaya diri saat presentasi.

He has a lot of experience, but he lacks confidence during presentations.

Contrasting professional skill with personal trait.

4

Hotelnya mewah sekali, tapi pelayanannya kurang memuaskan bagi saya.

The hotel is very luxurious, but the service is less than satisfying for me.

Contrasting physical luxury with service quality.

5

Tapi kan kita sudah janji mau pergi bareng hari ini?

But didn't we promise to go together today?

Using 'Tapi kan' to remind someone of a commitment.

6

Dia sudah minta maaf berkali-kali, tapi temannya tetap merasa kecewa.

He has apologized many times, but his friend still feels disappointed.

Contrasting action with emotional state.

7

Aplikasi ini sangat berguna, tapi sayangnya sering sekali error.

This application is very useful, but unfortunately, it errors very often.

Using 'tapi sayangnya' (but unfortunately).

8

Rencananya sudah matang, tapi kita masih butuh persetujuan dari bos.

The plan is ready, but we still need approval from the boss.

Using 'tapi' to indicate a remaining hurdle.

1

Dia mengaku tidak tahu apa-apa, tapi gerak-geriknya sangat mencurigakan.

He claimed not to know anything, but his movements/behavior are very suspicious.

Contrasting verbal statement with physical cues.

2

Investasi ini menjanjikan keuntungan besar, tapi resikonya juga tidak kecil.

This investment promises big profits, but the risks are also not small.

Contrasting pros and cons in a business context.

3

Kota ini sangat modern, tapi masih mempertahankan nilai-nilai budayanya.

This city is very modern, but it still maintains its cultural values.

Contrasting modernity with tradition.

4

Dia memang berbakat dalam seni, tapi dia memilih untuk menjadi pengusaha.

He is indeed talented in art, but he chose to become an entrepreneur.

Contrasting talent with career choice.

5

Harganya memang selangit, tapi kualitas bahannya tidak perlu diragukan lagi.

The price is indeed sky-high, but the quality of the material is no longer in doubt.

Using 'memang... tapi' with idiomatic 'selangit'.

6

Dia bilang mau diet, tapi barusan saya lihat dia makan martabak manis.

He said he wanted to diet, but I just saw him eating sweet martabak.

Contrasting intentions with immediate actions.

7

Persiapannya sudah maksimal, tapi faktor cuaca memang di luar kendali kita.

The preparation was maximal, but the weather factor is indeed beyond our control.

Contrasting preparation with external factors.

8

Banyak orang mengira dia sombong, tapi sebenarnya dia hanya pemalu.

Many people think he is arrogant, but actually he is just shy.

Contrasting perception with reality.

1

Kebijakan baru ini bertujuan baik, tapi implementasinya di lapangan masih tumpang tindih.

This new policy has good intentions, but its implementation on the ground is still overlapping.

Using 'tapi' to critique policy execution.

2

Dia adalah seorang orator yang ulung, tapi argumennya kali ini terasa kurang berdasar.

He is an accomplished orator, but his argument this time feels groundless.

Contrasting a person's reputation with a specific instance.

3

Teknologi ini sangat canggih, tapi kita tidak boleh melupakan aspek kemanusiaannya.

This technology is very sophisticated, but we must not forget its human aspect.

Using 'tapi' to introduce an ethical consideration.

4

Secara teori metode ini efektif, tapi dalam praktiknya banyak kendala yang muncul.

Theoretically this method is effective, but in practice many obstacles arise.

Contrasting theory and practice.

5

Dia memiliki segalanya, tapi sepertinya ada kehampaan yang dia rasakan di dalam hatinya.

He has everything, but it seems there is an emptiness he feels in his heart.

Contrasting material wealth with emotional state.

6

Gaya bahasanya sangat puitis, tapi terkadang maknanya menjadi terlalu kabur.

His language style is very poetic, but sometimes the meaning becomes too vague.

Contrasting aesthetic style with clarity.

7

Perusahaan itu berkembang pesat, tapi kesejahteraan karyawannya seringkali terabaikan.

The company is growing rapidly, but the welfare of its employees is often neglected.

Contrasting corporate success with social responsibility.

8

Pemandangannya indah luar biasa, tapi akses jalan menuju ke sana sangat memprihatinkan.

The view is extraordinarily beautiful, but the road access to get there is very concerning.

Contrasting natural beauty with infrastructure issues.

1

Narasi yang dibangun sangat meyakinkan, tapi jika ditelaah lebih dalam, terdapat banyak inkonsistensi.

The narrative built is very convincing, but if examined more deeply, there are many inconsistencies.

High-level analysis using 'tapi' to introduce a critical review.

2

Dia adalah figur yang kontroversial; dicintai oleh pendukungnya, tapi dihujat oleh para kritikusnya.

He is a controversial figure; loved by his supporters, but reviled by his critics.

Using 'tapi' to illustrate a profound social division.

3

Karya sastranya sarat akan metafora, tapi tetap membumi dan mudah dicerna oleh masyarakat awam.

His literary work is full of metaphors, but remains down-to-earth and easy to digest by laypeople.

Contrasting literary complexity with accessibility.

4

Pertumbuhan ekonomi memang stabil, tapi disparitas antara kaya dan miskin kian melebar.

Economic growth is indeed stable, but the disparity between the rich and the poor is widening.

Socio-economic critique using 'memang... tapi'.

5

Dia berusaha tegar di depan anak-anaknya, tapi tak kuasa menahan air mata saat sendirian.

She tried to be strong in front of her children, but couldn't hold back tears when alone.

Contrasting public persona with private grief.

6

Penelitian ini memberikan wawasan baru, tapi masih menyisakan banyak pertanyaan yang belum terjawab.

This research provides new insights, but still leaves many unanswered questions.

Academic conclusion using 'tapi' to define future scope.

7

Sistem ini dirancang untuk efisiensi, tapi dalam realitasnya justru menciptakan birokrasi yang lebih rumit.

This system was designed for efficiency, but in reality, it actually creates a more complicated bureaucracy.

Contrasting design intent with practical outcome.

8

Kata-katanya terdengar manis di telinga, tapi niat di baliknya patut dipertanyakan.

His words sound sweet to the ear, but the intention behind them is worth questioning.

Contrasting surface appearance with underlying motive.

Sign up free to see all examples

Related Content

Was this helpful?

Comments (0)

Login to Comment
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!