Bohong

Bohong is an Indonesian word meaning a false statement or deception. As a noun, it refers to a lie; as a verb it appears in phrases such as berbohong to mean to tell a lie. The word is common in everyday speech, media, and literature, and is used across Indonesian and Malay languages with similar meaning. A lie, or bohong, implies intentional deception; differences exist between bohong and mistakes or inaccuracies, which occur without intent.

Usage and forms: Berbohong is the standard verb for lying. The noun form bohong denotes the lie itself. Related terms include tipu, which conveys deception or trickery, and bohong kecil or bohong besar as informal gradations of severity. Expressions such as bohong belaka refer to outright lies.

Origins and regional use: The term is widespread in Indonesian and Malay and is cognate with similar Austronesian terms for deception. In many contexts it serves as a moral and social indicator of trust.

Social and legal context: Lying is generally viewed negatively in Indonesian culture and can undermine trust in personal and public relationships. In formal contexts, false statements can have consequences under applicable law, including defamation, fraud, or perjury provisions in relevant jurisdictions.

See also: truth, honesty, deception, defamation, fraud.